Around 490 BC, a Greek messenger ran over twenty-six miles from Marathon to Athens to announce the Greeks’ victory at the Battle of Marathon. Many people may not know, however, that after delivering his message, the messenger reportedly died. This tale serves as a reminder that while running a marathon is a considerable achievement, long-distance running should not be viewed as a viable way to improve health and longevity or be done consistently.
The Dangers of “More”
It is essential to understand that “more” does not always equal “better” when it comes to running, and in fact, it can often be dangerous to one’s health. If an individual is a professional athlete with a sponsorship to participate in long-distance running events, that is one thing, but it is not the most effective or healthy way to get fit for most people.
One reason for this is the nutritional requirements of training for and completing a marathon. Most of the bars, gels, and sports drinks available to help marathon participants fuel their bodies are nothing more than variations of sugar. Eating these products regularly goes against maintaining a healthy diet.
Furthermore, cardiologist Dr. James O’Keefe states that after sixty minutes of strenuous exercise, the heart becomes inflamed. Many marathoners exhibit elevated levels of troponin following a race — an indication that smooth muscle tissue in the heart is dying off. Studies have indicated that regular marathon runners have 62 percent more plaque in their arteries than men of comparable age and risk factors who do not run long distances. They also exhibit scarring in the left ventricle, which is the chamber of the heart responsible for sending oxygenated blood into the body.
Running Smart
People should not be scared off from all running, as there are many health benefits from moderate exercise. However, obsessive running is an issue that needs to be addressed. When an individual trains for a marathon, they are essentially revving their cardiovascular engine into the red zone. Health benefits from running peak at ten to fifteen miles a week, for one to two-and-a-half hours, two or three times a week at a moderate pace.
Training for a marathon takes dedication, grit, and determination, and requires the willingness to endure physical pain. While these are commendable attributes, an individual looking to improve their health and fitness would be better served spending time and energy on other activities.
If someone has running a marathon on their bucket list, it is advisable to do it only once. Once it has been completed, there is no need to repeat the grueling process. In other words, do not train for a marathon to get in shape. Instead, get in shape, and then train for that one single marathon. Once it is done, put it behind you and focus on maintaining a healthy and balanced fitness routine.
Long-distance running brings a sense of pride and an adrenaline rush but doing it obsessively can have serious consequences. Keep this in mind, and always prioritize your health above all else. Find a balanced and diverse fitness regimen that includes various types of exercise to avoid overexerting certain muscle groups, and focus on maintaining a healthy diet. In the end, your body will thank you.
