Running and Jogging - Health Benefits

Health benefits of running and jogging

Regular running or jogging offers many health benefits. Running can:

• help to build strong bones, as it is a weight bearing exercise

• strengthen muscles

• improve cardiovascular fitness

• burn plenty of kilojoules

• help maintain a healthy weight.

Running versus jogging

The difference between running and jogging is intensity. Running is faster, uses more kilojoules and demands more effort from the heart, lungs and muscles than jogging. Running requires a higher level of overall fitness than jogging. 

Both running and jogging are forms of aerobic exercise. Aerobic means 'with oxygen' – the term 'aerobic exercise' means any physical activity that produces energy by combining oxygen with blood glucose or body fat. 

Health and safety suggestions with running and jogging

Suggestions include:

• Make sure you eat a healthy, well-balanced diet.
• Avoid eating directly before going for a run.
• Avoid running during the hottest part of the day in summer.
• Drink plenty of water before, during and after your run.
• Take your mobile phone with you.
• If using an iPod or headset, do not have the music too loud – stay alert and aware.
• Wear reflective materials if you're running in the early morning or at night.
• Tell someone where you plan to run and when you think you'll be back.
• Choose well-lit, populated routes and avoid dangerous and isolated areas.
• If you injure yourself while running, stop immediately. Seek medical advice.