A recent study found that training for a first marathon (although this does work also for 5km, 10km, and half marathons) reverses the ageing of blood vessels and cuts the risk of stroke by a tenth. Novice runners who trained for six months and completed the race had a four-year reduction in the age of their arteries. Their systolic blood pressure - the pressure when the heart beats - also fell by 4mmHg.
This is comparable to the effect of medication and if maintained translates to a ten per cent lower risk of stroke over a lifetime.
Researchers from University College London examined 159 healthy first-time marathon runners aged 21 to 69. All followed a typical training program, running six to thirteen miles a week for six months before the London marathon. Participants were subjected to medical checks before they started training, and for two weeks after crossing the finishing line. This included MRI and ultrasound scans of the heart an blood vessels, a fitness test, and measurements of blood pressure and heart rate
Aortic stiffness reduced after completing the marathon and the aorta was four years younger than before training. The leader of the study said: "you do not have to be an elite athlete to gain the benefits from marathon training, in fact they appeared greatest in those who were older and slower."
HMHB promotes an active lifestyle. If you can run it is a great way to boost bloodflow through the body and oxygen intake, as well as provide you with targets and goals. If you are physically able to push your body in this way then it should be encouraged.
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