Running is good for your bone density: Study

We run for different reasons such as for weight loss, building endurance and stamina, running to clear mind, to feel good, to get in shape and keep the diseases at bay etc. Well these are the primary reasons why we start running.

As we have talked about how running is good for knees, as contrary to some belief that it impacts the knee in long run. Here is another piece of study which favors the fact that running is good for your overall bone density as well.

A new study has analysed the effect of endurance running training on the stiffness index, which is a variable directly related to bone quality.

According to the research, that the greater the race distance, the better; this can be used, therefore, to prevent the progressive decline in bone mineral density that occurs with age.

The research, lead by Camilo Jose Cela University, determined how training to compete in endurance races can modify the mechanical properties of the calcaneus, a bone in the foot that forms the heel.

The changes in the mechanical properties of the bone were measured using the stiffness or rigidity index, a variable that is directly related to the bone density of the calcaneus. Author Beatriz Lara said that the results showed that the endurance runners had a greater stiffness index than the sedentary individuals.

There was another study by National Center for Biotechnology Information, running significantly reduced the injury risk to knee and also reduced the osteoarthritis and hip replacement risk in individuals. It further revealed that runners had half the incidence of knee osteoarthritis when compared to walkers.

Long distance running is an high-impact exercise specially on the joints, muscles groups and bones. Contrary to what many people think that this can harm the knees, it actually seems to make the knee joint stronger by thickening the cartilage (Cartilage is a tough, flexible connective tissue around the knees – It acts as a cushion for bones at joints). Continuous impact from running also stimulates bone growth and strengthens the muscles around the knee, hamstrings, quadriceps and calf muscles.

So now we have more reasons to take up running as daily routine. Happy running!