Some of us need to be reminded that there are many good reasons why we should start running or keep running. It’s more than just staying fit. Running on a regular basis has many other benefits. Here are 10 good reasons to run.

1. Live longer — A study released by Stanford University Medical Center last year indicated a significant difference in the life span of runners and non-runners. The study conducted over a 20-year period showed that at the 19-year point, only 15 percent of the runner group had died, compared to 34 percent of the non-runner group. The study also indicated that the onset of disabilities were significantly delayed in the runner group.

2. Look better — Obviously, if you are healthy and more fit, you will look better. With improved fitness, comes improved posture.

3. Improve cardiovascular system — It is well known that running and other strenuous exercises that increase the heart rate improve the cardiovascular system.

4. Control weight — Whether we run or not, we all have to watch what we eat and limit our calorie intake. We can burn calories at a greater rate when we run, helping control weight. Running, especially in the evening before dinner, can help reduce the appetite.

5. Feel better — If you run on a regular basis and live a healthy lifestyle, you are going to feel better about yourself and have more energy. This comes from knowing that you are doing everything that you can to improve your health and look your best.

6. Enjoy the sport with others — Running offers the opportunity to enjoy the sport with others who are just as concerned about fitness as you are.

7. Competition — If you want competition, running offers the opportunity. Competing in races against others can improve your performance and enhance your experiences with the sport.

8. Fresh air — Running forces you to get outside and away from the stale indoor air, while enjoying the fresh air outdoors.

9. Self-confidence — Along with improved physical fitness and appearance, running will improve your self-confidence. You will have more energy and a better outlook on life.

10. Encourage others to stay fit — In everything we do, we set examples for others to follow. By running to stay fit, we provide a positive example for our family and others. We give others the opportunity to share the benefits of running.

With so many good reasons to be running, now is a good time to get started. If you need help getting started, visit the Seven Hills Running Club Web site at http://www.7hills.us and contact one of the club officers. Of course, always check with your physician before starting a running program.



Recent race results:

Bataan Memorial Death March Marathon (26.2 miles in the desert), Mar. 29, White Sands Missile Range, N.M.

John Cook, 53, 5:48:43

Ken Johnson, 67, 6:26:42

Luis Velasquez, 41, 10:31:52



Capitol 10,000 (6.2 miles),

Mar. 29, Austin

Roy Cox, 37, 1:35:26

Alan Jenkin, 76, 1:49:06



Run the Trails, 3.5 miles,

Mar. 29, Huntsville State Park

Courtney West

Robert Barnhill

Stacy Ulbig

Jan Parks

Adrienne Langelier

Henry Heintz

Stephanie Heintz

Curtis Barton

Robert Duncan

Jane Jackson

Adam Jackson

Thea Jackson

James Spencer

Colleen Spencer

Mary Sweeten



Muddy Buddy 5K (3.1 miles),

The Woodlands, Apr. 4

Adrienne Langelier, 26, 19:00 (1st female)

Daniel Phillips, 20, 28:19

Keelie Hughes, 25, 31:16



Next race in Huntsville

Apr. 25 - Spring Fling 5K and 1-Mile Run/Walk, 8 a.m., Bowers Stadium Parking Lot.

For more information about this race and others, visit the Seven Hills Running Club Web site and click on Race Schedule.