Many runners will tell you that lacing up your trainers before the sun comes up can become one of the best parts of your day. They say that getting out there sets a positive tone, gives them more energy and a better mood, and helps their overall health and well being.
But why?
Is there any evidence to support these feelings?
Or is it all just vibes?
The Scientific Benefits of Running (And Exercising) Early
It’s one thing to say that running in the morning is good for you, but it’s another to know it has been studied numerous times and has tangible benefits.
A morning run can improve your metabolism when combined with fasting, which results in more calories burned throughout the day. Not only is that aerobic workout great for weight management, but as the sun rises that vitamin D boost from the light improves bone health and immune function.
Ever find it’s difficult to maintain your running routine? a 2020 study found that it can increase your adherence to any exercise plan. And once you get that routine going, exercise done in the morning is less likely to get skipped, so waking up in the morning should get easier.
Speaking of getting out of bed, we all know how important a good night’s sleep is to our overall health. A study from 2014 showed a link between exercising in the morning and improved sleep quality and better sleep patterns.
Need more focus? Morning runs can help with that too! The endorphins from running boost energy and alertness, which should leave you far more clear headed and ready to face the day.
There’s Just Something About Greeting The Sun
We just covered some of the science, but what about the existential benefits? Vibes matter too, right?
Anybody who’s laced up very early and gotten out there before the sun rises knows that the morning world tends to be quieter. This calmness can help give you a greater sense of peace and clarity, and that’s harder to replicate later in the day.
And when you watch the sun rise, you can’t help but be reminded that it’s a new day. New days represent optimism, as they come with a fresh set of hours and the idea that anything can happen.
Not only that, seeing the sun rise is likely to remind you that the world is very big, and maybe the problems you have aren’t that insurmountable after all.
Making Intentional Choices Matters
Setting a morning running routine can be a challenge. That’s why it’s important to set intentions and turn them into actions.
Intentional living is the practice of deciding what’s most important in your life, identifying your core values and goals, and then making decisions that focus on those things. This leads to a greater sense of purpose and better direction in life.
It also impacts your mental health in a myriad of positive ways.
Being intentional helps you focus on the actions that align with your goals, which can help silence some of the noise created by things that don’t ultimately matter. And when you’re sure of your values and priorities, it reduces stress when it comes time to make decisions.
Also, when setbacks occur, you have the resilience to face them and keep your eye on the prize. Living intentionally can help you prioritize tasks and activities based on what’s most important to you, which can assist with better time management skills. People who do this are more likely to be satisfied and fulfilled by life.
So if you’re looking for a small way to make a big difference in your life, get up early to run and watch the sun rise at least a few times a month. It could have a significant impact on your ability to improve your physical and mental health, and increase your feelings of joy and well being.
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