Dr. Sunil - Is It Bad For You? Approved by Dr. Sunil

Is Running Every Day Bad For You?


Grade

B+


Short answer

Running several times per week can benefit your body and mind in many ways, but running too often can pose harmful consequences to your body. If you do choose to run everyday, be sure to stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to nourish your hard-working body.

Grade

B+


Long answer

It is a widely known fact that regular exercise is beneficial to your overall health. Consistent cardio such as running comes with a range of positive mental and physical effects including more muscle, less fat, increased energy, decreased symptoms of depression, illness and more.

However, while running can do amazing things for your body, it can also damage it. Many people who run many miles several times per week experience negative symptoms such as knee problems, shin splints, and even a higher risk for heart problems (although not common). A study published by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology also suggests that running too much can simply undo all of the benefits listed above.

It is recommended that the average individual perform at least one hour of cardio five days per week. Many avid runners do go the extra mile, literally, and fit a run into their routine six or seven days per week. Doing cardio every day is not necessarily bad, but it is important to switch up the type of cardio you perform. Swimming, doing yoga, riding a stationary exercise bike, shortening the length of your cardio, or participating in another form of cardio that is less strenuous on your muscles and joints a few times per week can help you avoid the negative effects of running too often.

Furthermore, not exercising at all on some days can actually be good for your health and help you reach your fitness goals more quickly. On rest days, your muscles have time to build themselves back up, resulting in increased strength and decreased fat.


Possible short-term side effects

  • shin splints
  • achy joints
  • achy muscles
  • not enough recovery time

Possible long-term side effects

  • knee problems
  • heart problems (extreme cases)


Benefits

  • weight loss
  • builds muscle
  • increases energy
  • decreases depression
  • decreases stress

Healthier alternatives

  • alternative forms of cardio
  • rest days



Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Shaylie F
Published on: 12-29-2015
Last updated: 12-10-2016

Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Shaylie F
Published on: 12-29-2015
Last updated: 12-10-2016




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