Running Road

Running is good not only for the present state of your body but also helps improve the condition of your body even ten years from now. Studies have shown that regular running helps maintain bone mass which is of great importance to women who have crossed menopause. Menopause reduces levels of estrogen in the body which reduces the absorption of calcium in older women which leads to weaker joints and also increased wear and tear in bone joint tissue.

This wear and tear is called osteoarthritis and it is a degenerative joint condition wherein there is deterioration in the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones in the joints. When this protective cushioning is absent, the bone rubs against the bone and this causes pain. Although many people believe that osteoarthritis is unavoidable with the onset of old age, studies have shown that female runners tend to lose bone density as a slower rate than others.

Since running aids in the maintenance of bone density, it essentially slows down the ageing process. Osteoarthritis is always associated with age, being overweight and obese and with reduction in estrogen levels. Excess weight however is agreed to be the biggest risk factor in developing osteoarthritis of the knee. Thus gradually with a loss in weight, the load on your knees reduces significantly. Even though losing weight is one of the toughest things possible, every pound counts in the way to good health. Being regular with running helps build and maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints and is the best possible way to prevent osteoarthritis because it helps in weight loss and maintenance and also keeps the joints in good condition and the calcium levels elevated. So begin jogging your way to healthy knees and a healthy body.