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On International Day for Running, doctors, fitness freaks and people from all walks of life tell Orissa POST that not only is running the most effective way of keeping lethal diseases at bay it is also a great antidote to depression
“You will be nearer to heaven through football than through the study of the Gita,” said Swami Vivekananda. The saint meant that physical fitness and strength are vital for spiritual upliftment. And nobody can deny that running is the best means of achieving physical fitness.
As the world celebrates International Day for Running November 8, Orissa POST speaks to a cross-section of society on the importance of running in daily life to attain vigour, nerve and muscle strength and, more importantly, a long life.
For athlete Dutee Chand, running is an opportunity to earn for India a place in the international forum, while also being a great way of staying fit and in fine shape.
Hailing from the small village of Kuakhia in Jajpur district, the ace sprinter who nurtured her dream since childhood achieved the commendable feat of participating in the women’s 100-metre qualifications at the Rio Olympics. Dutee suggested that everyone who maintains a sedentary lifestyle should devote at least 15 minutes a day to running to keep fit and keep diseases at bay.
Oriya actress Jina Samal, famous for her flawless figure and agile movements, said: “No other exercise matches running for its ability to make you sweat. There are numerous gym staples which make you work hard, but running burns calories the most.”
Jina, however, lamented that nowadays there are few open public spaces left for runners who sweat it out in the morning. The energy expenditure is less on a treadmill than on a flat pavement due to the lack of wind resistance in the former, she said.
“Running wears us out fast but we get accustomed to it quickly. Running helps us build stamina and strength which are vital for a healthy lifestyle,” said the young diva whose daily fitness schedule includes at least 15 minutes of exercise on the treadmill along with other workouts.
For actress Jhilik Bhattacharjee, inhaling fresh air is a must for a healthy body and mind. “We breathe fresh air while running as our breathing rate increases during the exercise. As our locality has become congested and overcrowded over the years, I run on my terrace soon after daybreak to inhale fresh air which lifts my mood,” she said.
She added that running is an incredibly effective exercise. “While it is greatly effective in burning cholesterol, it also raises the level of good cholesterol in the blood,” Jhilik added.
According to Dr Nityananda Swain, running boosts the immune system and lowers the risk of developing blood clots by increasing bodily functions. The faster you run, the harder your heart works and the stronger it gets.
The retired nutritionist, however, emphasised on proper diet for those who run long distances regularly. Having a healthy diet is even more important for professional runners.
Dr Swain said running is a heavy activity and requires a high energy level. “For long races, you need to ensure your glycogen stores are full. Before starting a marathon, it is advisable you indulge in carbohydrate-rich foods,” Dr Swain added.
Priya Patra who hails from Jatni in Khurda district and is currently based in Mumbai said: “No exercise lifts your mood better and keeps your body healthier. Even as doctors recommend running for patients who are in the early stages of diabetes and high blood pressure, I just love 15 minutes of running every morning and evening to keep myself fit and happy. Not only does it burn extra calories, it helps me maintain a consistent weight.”
The mother of two said she has been practising running since childhood to boost confidence and self-esteem. It is also a great way to relieve stress, she added.
Seconding Patra, Dr Jayaram Das, a retired Army doctor, said: “The brain secretes hormones, vital for improving mood, after a few minutes of running. Running in the morning when the air we breathe is fresh is the most effective way of treating depression.”
