Running for Heart Health

Are you thinking about joining us for The Seven Bridges Marathon on Sunday, October 16, 2016, in Chattanooga, Tennessee? If you’ve never run a full marathon before, you might be wondering if your body is strong enough. And you might be curious about your heart health and marathon training.

Studies have shown that training for a marathon can positively boost heart health. In only 18 weeks of training, runners can enjoy stronger heart function and a more favorable lipid profile. Running, in general, helps to improve blood pressure and blood sugar sensitivity, which benefits total cardiovascular health.

If you’re looking to better your heart health this year, start running, and check out these tips:

• Don’t smoke or hang out with people who do.
  
• Eat a varied diet focused on fruits, veggies, whole grains, nuts and fatty fish.
  
• Opt for natural electrolyte drinks, rather than the ones loaded with refined sugar.
  
• Know your blood pressure level and check it regularly.
  
• Give yourself healthy ways to reduce stress—distance running is a great outlet!
  
• Get a group of friends or family members together to run with you and help you stick to heart-healthy goals.
  
• Be aware of your body’s need for rich sources of electrolytes, like potassium and magnesium, and don’t just pile on the salt for your sodium fix.
  
• Talk to your doctor about your marathon goals.
  

So what do you think? Will we see you cross the finish line in Coolidge Park? Come join Scenic City in Chattanooga’s original marathon—register today!