The Power of Movement: Why Running Could Be Medicine for Your Heart and Mind

At Walk Alton, we know how important it is to keep moving – whether that’s a gentle stroll through the woods or something a bit more energetic. Movement helps keep our bodies strong, our minds clear, and our spirits lifted. If you’re already walking regularly, keep it up! But if you’re curious about trying something new, running might be worth considering.

In their series Exercise is Medicine, the team at Cardiac Rehab UK shares some encouraging advice about running and its powerful health benefits. Running can be especially good for your heart, helping to strengthen your cardiovascular system, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels. All these factors reduce your risk of heart disease, which is something we all want to avoid.

Running also offers a boost for your mental wellbeing. It triggers the release of endorphins — those natural “feel-good” chemicals that help fight anxiety and depression. So, it’s not just about your body; running can help lift your mood and keep your mind healthy, too.

But if running feels like a big step, there’s no rush – walking is still a fantastic way to keep active and enjoy many of the same benefits, just at a gentler pace. If you do want to give running a try, Cardiac Rehab recommends starting slowly and finding a pace that feels comfortable for you. It’s about enjoying the process and building up gradually, not pushing yourself too hard.

At Walk Alton, we believe movement should be enjoyable and accessible to everyone. Whether that’s walking, running, or a mix of both, what matters most is staying active in a way that works for you.

For more detailed guidance on running and heart health, take a look at Cardiac Rehab’s full article here: Exercise is Medicine Part 5: The Case for Running.