Benefits of Running and Cycling

7 Reasons to Sign Up for a Spring Race

Setting your sights on a spring foot or bike race readies you for success throughout the year—and training for one can whip you into shape STAT
By Hollis Templeton fitbie
 

Beat the Winter Blues

If gray skies and bitter temps have you spending more time on the sofa than in the saddle, battle a case of the blahs by upping your weekly cardio workouts and making the most of warm-weather days. Returning your running or cycling sessions to the outdoors means you'll be soaking up more rays (remember sunscreen, of course) and that your body will be producing more depression-busting vitamin D. (Search: How much vitamin D do I need each day?)

Logging more miles may also let you tap into the euphoria-like state known as runner's high. Running spurs the production of endorphins, which attach themselves to areas of the brain associated with positive emotions such as joy and love, according to German researchers who compared brain scans from 10 athletes at rest and after 2 hours of distance running.

But don't worry; good moods aren't exclusive to runners—or strenuous workouts. Just 30 minutes of any cardio exercise can reduce feelings of tension, depression, anger, and fatigue, say researchers from American College of Sports Medicine. And the effect isn't short lived. A sweat session can elevate your mood for up to 12 hours after you cool down, according to a University of Vermont study. Since race training requires regular workouts, expect to feel happier and more energized all season.

More: Whether it's your first or fiftieth race, pick up Marathon: The Ultimate Training Guide for daily training plans, nutrition tips, and injury prevention strategies that will make your next 26.2 miles your best yet

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