In 2016 we will…
Run.
As we all know, exercise is essential for a healthy body and mind and one of the best things about running is that it’s free. There’s no membership to pay, no fancy equipment needed, all you need is a decent pair of trainers combined with enthusiasm, energy and motivation.
You might not think you’re a runner, but we all have the ability within ourselves to run. Admittedly, we might not have the best technique and we might only be able to run for a few metres before collapsing in a red faced, panting heap, but if you have working legs you are physically able to run.
There are plenty of programs out there for novice runners, such as the Couch to 5k running plan from NHS Choices, which literally takes someone who has never run before on a nine week program that at the end has you running 5k. Based on intervals of walking, running and resting the plan works on slowly building your strength and stamina up gradually over the nine week period.
Just look what running will do for you:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Tone your body
- Relieve stress
- Fight and prevent disease
- Increase your chance of a longer life
- Keep your brain active
- Make you happy
- Give you more energy.
Many of us will be thinking about increasing our exercise levels after the excesses of Christmas and sales of gym memberships absolutely rocket at the beginning of a new year. Gym memberships are expensive and most of them are no longer being used come February when the novelty of sticking to resolutions starts to wear off. So, instead, why not think about taking up running in 2016 instead of joining the gym? You’ll be getting outside and doing exercise without it costing you a penny.
