HEALTH

Wanna start running? Or maybe you've thought about it but just can't get yourself out of that gym rut. Truth is, running is great for your health and can be a really fun way to get in shape, plus you can't beat being outside rather than stuck in a b-o-r-i-n-g gym. That's why we are all for strapping on a pair of sneaks and sprinting the streets like the track star we know you are. 

Here's our top reasons you should consider hittin' the pavement: 

1. You’ll be in a great mood

When you complete a challenging workout it’s normal to feel on-top-of-the-world, but in addition to that, running causes your body to release endorphins, which not only reduces pain, but also increases positive feelings within the body. Next time you’re bombarded with school work or have friend drama, take a quick jog. After your run, you’ll be able to see things much clearer and in a much more positive light. Remember—guys don’t like negative nancys.

2. It’s inexpensive

It’s no secret that living a healthy lifestyle can be expensive. Buying all-natural, organic food can really put a strain on your wallet, and even cool sports, like horseback riding or field hockey, require expensive equipment (and you already asked for an advance in allowance for those Demi Lovato tickets, remember?). The only equipment needed for running are a pair of good running shoes and a sports bra (and you know, some shorts and a top would be good too). You’ll feel great about yourself and you won’t break the bank—major win.

3. You can get a really HOT BOD 

Don’t even get us started on the legs that runners have—that definition, those muscular calves…can we please have legs like that? Now, we know that looks are so not everything, but looking downright fab in your mini skirt is a major plus from those early morning jog sessions.

4. You can eat more carbs

Bread, pasta, cake, cookies, talk about DELISH. Depending on exercise intensity, you can burn a lot of carbs during your sweat sesh. Before running, carbohydrate intake is super important to your workout because your body stores the carbs you eat and uses it as energy while you run. We’re not telling you to eat an entire cake before your jog (BAD IDEA), but don’t feel guilty about eating those few slices of toast for breakfast—after all, you will need it later.

5. It helps you see places you’ve never seen

You drive the same roads every day, see the same stores, and think you know your town like the back of your hand, but do you really? Running allows you to see places you wouldn’t normally see—the center of that park you pass on your way to school, the little creek in the back of your neighborhood, or the dock at the edge of your town. Running gives you the opportunity to stop and smell the roses when you wouldn’t typically—so step outside that comfort zone girl!

Why do you run? Let us know in the comments!

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