Teesside sports academic promotes positive reasons to run

As thousands of people prepare to limber up to take part in the Great North Run this weekend, a Teesside University academic is extolling the benefits of running.

Runners of all ages and abilities from across the region will join the Great North Run this Sunday, covering a half-marathon route of just over 13 miles from Newcastle’s city centre to the coast in South Shields.

Dr Alison Innerd, Senior Lecturer in Sport & Exercise in the University’s School of Health & Social Care, said: 'We know that regular physical activity can improve our health and wellbeing and there is a strong public health message for people to move more and sit less, as any activity is better than none.

'Running, along with walking, are appealing due to their accessibility, as participants only need some loose fitting clothing and trainers.'

Dr Innerd also highlights the positive role which running can bring in socialising and keeping fit, rather than just seeing it as a competitive sport.

She explained: 'Running has grown in popularity, achieved through the success of community-based approaches such as Parkrun.

'Interestingly, many groups and programmes now target individuals to get them started on their running journey by focusing on the health benefits, rather than focusing on competition.

'There is an abundance of regular fun-runs, free runs and more challenging events such as the Great North Run, giving people an opportunity to run with fellow recreational runners, but also alongside elite performers which is a rare occasion in other sports.

'Some will aim to compete, while many will aim to complete, but regardless of the goal, all runners are sharing the experience.'

She added: 'There are many physical benefits from running. Research has shown that runners have 45 percent lower risk of cardiovascular-related mortality and three years greater life expectancy than non-runners.

'There are also mental health benefits from running, especially as part of a group giving individuals a sense of community and an opportunity to make connections, a sense of personal achievement and a way to build confidence.'

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