I just read an interesting article...
http://runningtimes.com/Article.aspx?ArticleID=25970&PageNum=2
A short excerpt:
Contrary to sedentary America's belief, lifelong running is good for us.
James Fries, M.D., co-author of a 2008 study from Stanford that tracked 528 runners and 423 non-runners beginning in 1984, counts the ways: "Running improves your blood pressure. You're less likely to get blood clots and varicose veins. Bones become stronger and denser. It's a treatment for osteoporosis. It prevents fractures of the hips and spine. The ligaments get bigger and stronger--they protect the joints from wobbling, which is one thing that causes joints to wear out. Lungs get stronger. Our physical reserve is greater."
The Stanford study confirmed what lifelong runners have always suspected:- Runners suffer fewer disabilities. Running delays age-related disabilities by almost two decades.
- Runners are seven times less likely to require knee replacement.
- Running doesn't lead to increased hip, back or knee problems.
- Runners suffer less cancer and neurological problems.
- Runners are half as likely as non-runners to die early.
Runners began the study with an average of 12,000-14,000 miles on their legs, and many have since doubled that. They weren't weekend joggers. Some were Olympians.
'Running is a very natural thing," says Fries, "and there's no upper limit to it, as long as it's not painful.'
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