Why Run - 5 Benefits of Long Distance Running

Why Run? What benefits can you expect from long distance running? Having raced 33x 100 miles ultra marathon, I have seen how running has changed my life for the better.
With the new year, we often look for ways to improve our life - maybe being healthier, or happier. From my experience, trail running is the perfect sport for this. It will make you commit to a healthier lifestyle that will benefit both your physical and mental health.
So today, I want to discuss the benefits of long distance running, and how it has changed my life over the past 4 years.
As always - Thanks for watching and remember -
Work Hard!
Believe in yourself!
Push your limits!
Simon
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Instagram:
/ runningwithsimon
Strava:
/ strava
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How to Run an Ultra Marathon series:
- Training Plan & Long Runs - • How To Run Your First ...
- Are you ready? What no one tells you about Ultra Marathon - • Are you ready? What no...
- Why Run - The Benefits of Long Distance Running - • Why Run - 5 Benefits o...
- The 7 MOST Common Running Mistakes! - • Most Common Running Mi...
- Running Longer (without getting tired) - Ultra Marathon Training Tips - • How To Run Longer (wit...
- My Top 5 Ultra Marathon - How to Find the Best Race - • The Best 100 Miles Rac...
- Hill Repeat and Uphill Training - How To Run a Hilly Mountain Ultra Marathon - • Hill Repeat and Uphill...
- Fuel Your Run - Nutrition for Ultra Marathon & Long Runs - • Fuel Your Run - Nutrit...
- How to Choose Race Gear (using Leadville 100 as example) - • Race Gear from Leadvil...
- The Bro Code of Ultra Running (Unwritten Rules and How to Behave) - • How To Run Your First ...
- 5 Mental Stages of an Ultra Marathon (tips to improve mental toughness) - • How To Run Your First ...
- Blisters & Footcare - • Blisters Prevention an...
- Heat Training - • How To Ultra Running -...
My Favorite Race by Distance - Have a look at the race recap to be inspired!
- 100+: Sedona 125 - • Trail Running Sedona 1...
- 100 miles: Ouray 100 - • Ouray 100 miles Ultra ...
- 100k: Black Canyon 100 - • Trail Running Black Ca...
- 50 miles: Leadville Silver Rush - • Leadville Silver Rush ...
- 50k: Bishop 50 - • 55 km Ultra Marathon R...

[@runningwithsimon]

So what brought you to trail running? And what benefits have you seen?

[@soulzerosix]

Hey, there is some solid advice on your video. Stuff we all know, but need to be reminded now and then. You have a very healthy mindset, I'm certainly taking notes and will try to apply some of the things you mention. I'm only an occasional runner, it's a complementary thing to my other activities, but the simplicity and lack of excess equipment makes trail running very liberating.

[@dombaker8790]

Running became the reason to give up booze. I wasnt drinking loads but was losing morning training to being hungover. Much happier as a result and can go to the pub and have a really satisfying reason not to sink 5 beers. Win win.

[@jcg1272]

I can relate. My new garmin is the first sleep tracker I’ve had. Shocking how even 2 drinks, let alone 5+, wreck your sleep.

[@runningwithsimon]

That's awesome!

[@Lowe-life]

@@jcg1272my garmin reflected the same data. Drink=💩sleep. Also running and drinking quite conflicting hobbies.

[@davidatkinson5396]

I’ve been running for 15 years now - currently 59 years old and recently retired. I loved running initially because it provided sanity when my career was unsatisfying. I also appreciate it, and especially trail running and long runs, because it provides a sense of reality when most of life seems so artificial.

[@mkgreenluv]

I’ve always loved the outdoors including hiking and fishing or just be with nature. I must be hitting midlife crisis or something (lol), but I got into trail running recently and I’m loving it - just happier, healthy overall. This is a different game which I’m hoping to be in for a long time. Thank you for all the tips and knowledge you’ve shared in your channel.

[@dombaker8790]

There are definitely worse ways to handle the mid-life crisis.

[@runningwithsimon]

@@dombaker8790 lol seriously!

[@runningwithsimon]

I very much feel that!

[@pamela_runs_trails]

I absolutely love the people I have met in trail and ultra running community. As you said, meeting people as an adult that you enjoy being with for hours at a time is not easy, but this is the greatest experience I have had to learn more about myself and others.

[@runningwithsimon]

Exactly - it's harder to meet new people as adult, and people you meet trail running share something with you. It's easy to connect

[@chuckperry3313]

I came to trail running late in life. Friends and family are starting to pass from this realm to the next. Then the pandemic hit. How many warning shots does one need across the bow before they get the message that life is fleeting. I guess over 60 years worth. I called running my anti-social distancing. I love running trails. I love watching how the trails change through the seasons. I am just barely an ultra runner. I only have one 50k under my belt, but I have thousands of miles of trails done. I hope to progress over the next few years until I can finally do a 100 mile event sometime before I hit 70. I have some rules for what I do, go figure. Rule Number 1 is "Do no harm". If I hurt myself training or doing whatever I can not run or exercise for some number of days. After a week or two of not training it takes more time to just get back to where you were.

[@runningwithsimon]

Never too late! And totally agree on the "Do no harm". It's easy to be impatient but then a minor ailments becomes an actual major injuries :/

[@user-bs1lj3kv7h]

Truth! After 5 Ironmans including a Kona finish in my late 40’s to early 50’s it was too much stress. I have switched to ultra running and am ready for my 10th race of 100 miles or longer next month. I couldn’t be happier !

[@runningwithsimon]

Different vibe for sure! But Kona - that's impressive!!!! Congrats :)

[@jcg1272]

Spot on. Last week was my distance pb at 15.35 mi. Been back at in for only a couple of months. Realized a few weeks ago, I love my long runs bc it’s the only way I can give myself hours of me-time in nature. It’s become the highlight of my week, every week.

[@runningwithsimon]

Congrats on the PB :)

[@BrockRunsFar]

Running gives me an outlet for a really hyper focused personality. I’m someone that really thrives with a large challenge that I can measurably work towards. Races give me that structure to work the rest of my life around and I love it that way.

[@runningwithsimon]

Same!

[@earthquakemagoon2505]

Got into running because I love being outdoors. It also helps me deal with stress in a massive way. Thanks Simon! Skål!

[@runningwithsimon]

Exactly! I don't know if they did study on that - but I can tell for sure that for me, I'm happier, calmer and less stressed if I'm able to spend some time outdoors

[@mmg781]

Although new to ultra running, I have been a trail runner ever since high school, almost 30 years now!!! (Yikes, I cried a little after typing that😅). For me, the very best parts of running are those moments when I’m floating effortlessly through the woods, my mind totally quiet, my breathing is calm and rhythmic. It’s kinetic meditation!

[@runningwithsimon]

Very Zen! I wish I had a "switch' to be in that state. But it makes it even more special when it happens :)

[@johnsrous1616]

You got that right. Running uphills on trails is indeed quite like meditation as you're facing the challenge of a hill you might not see the end of. You begin thinking "hey, I can handle this" and actually do it. I ONLY run on dirt trails now as my home lies on a trail I ran on 20 yrs ago. Give trail running a go. If it's your first time being out there or maybe your first 🏃‍♀️ period you'll be all the better for it. See you on the dirt tomorrow AM.

[@Kelly_Ben]

Cult recruitment video!! 😂😂😂 That’s actually pretty accurate. I started with cross country in school, did lots of road 5/10ks, then got passionately into hiking/mountaineering. Once I started my own business, I didn’t have time for entire days in the mountains, and started running on my hikes. Then I watched a KZbin video on the Glen Coe Skyline race, and immediately switched to ultras/trail marathons. I have a non running related heart issue, and my cardiologist actually approved of my ultras, due to the lower intensity. I love spending time in nature- and studies actually have proven exercise is just as effective as medication for certain physical and mental issues. Otherwise, the incredible, friendly, supportive atmosphere/people and delicious food at aid stations are what keep me in this awesome sport, despite my tight time schedule.

[@runningwithsimon]

I'd be curious to read studies supporting activities in nature such as hiking and trail running for improvement of mental health. It's one of those thing that I never read anything about it - but it seems pretty obvious. But how to demonstrate it...ouch. As a scientist myself, that sounds like an interesting puzzle

[@Kelly_Ben]

@@runningwithsimon There are plenty of studies about exercise being as effective as meds for depression, but for the nature aspect, the Japanese have done some interesting studies. Look up forest bathing.

[@SeeChadRun]

Great thoughts! I love running! For me, it's become gratitude in motion. I started running because I was a good sprinter (when I was much younger). As I got older and had kids, I started running to improve my fitness. Now, while I enjoy the added fitness, I also run because I enjoy it (very much intrinsic reasons). One thing that I've realized recently is that if you use running to solve all your problems and habits, then no amount of running will be enough and you'll end up burning yourself. HOWEVER, if you let running complement your life, your choices, your physical and mental health, then it becomes something amazing and special!

[@runningwithsimon]

Yeah - and I think running doesn't solve any of my problem honestly. But it helps me solve them...if that makes sense

[@dwarsfluitistje]

Thanks for sharing, Simon! I love the vibe of this video, it really resonates with me. I also LOVE to be in nature. I hike a lot and am slowly turning to more (trail)running. I'm very far away from doing any race, and it's not really my goal to participate in one, but the more time I can spend in nature, enjoying the mountains and other beautiful landscapes, the happier I become.

[@runningwithsimon]

I basically started like this too - was hiking, and eventually just added a little bit of running on the flat or downs. Next thing you know, I was 'racing' 100s. But mostly because I never feel like I'm "racing" racing, if you know what I mean. For me, it's just like an organized (long) day hike with support. So simpler logistics, and mostly, other people around (which makes it more fun and also a little safer). I can't imagine doing 100 solo

[@flacoursvid]

Another benefit is that you can meet the tiny people of the forest. I only saw them once after running a long time at QMT100. They were very friendly!

[@runningwithsimon]

lol - I'm actually running QMT100 this year! Any message you want me to pass along to the tiny people of the forest?

[@JoelNads72]

J'ai commencé le vélo de montagne pour perdre du poids mais suite à une grosse chute je me suis tourné vers la course à pied, puis j'ai découvert le trail et j'ai adoré. Je n'ai pas encore fini de course (2 dnf) mais je le ferai bientôt

[@runningwithsimon]

J'ai également essayer le velo de montange - et j'aimais beaucoup. Mais apres 2 chutes resultant en des côtes cassées, j'ai pris ma retraite! Apres Leadville 100 MTB en 2022, j'ai laver le sang sur mon velo et maintenant il prend la poussiere dans mon garage

[@ricodelavega4511]

another couple of benefits is that in an ultra, you may hallucinate (like@4.38min) and/or have a female companion or friend who will remind you that trail running "is so cool!" (like @2min). Your race lineup SG via ultrasignup for 2024 is insane. I'm a comparable runner, but at 50k distance. I love the adventure

[@runningwithsimon]

Thanks! haha ooops I forgot to mute the clip @2min (and yup, that's my wonderful Nora being her lovely self). Good luck for 2024 :)

[@user-wx7wg5cn1m]

Mostly a biker, but when conditions outside call for a run instead, yes , a great way to get that much needed exercise done. Thanks to inspiring people like you supplying much needed guidance I can get this done the right way - good on you Simon! 🚴🏼‍♂️🏃‍♀️🌿🧘🏼🙏

[@runningwithsimon]

You're welcome! I miss mountain biking sometimes, but I don't miss the crashes...

[@Chrisblottphoto]

There’s so so much on here about running but this video and the only other one I’ve watched so far are really great. Sensible, wise, passionate and the thing I love most is that it’s not about speed. So many videos and running chat are focused on speed even the ones that say run slow - to run fast, it’s always about speed. I like how these are all about the joy of running. I run because I love it and if I run to fast it will stop me running the nest day or worse injure me. Anyway, great videos, all the best. Chris

[@runningwithsimon]

Thanks Chris!

[@dawnjansenvanrensburg6541]

Love that your videos is 15 min or less. Keeping my attention. your sense of keeping it real being a person with job, fam life etc.

[@runningwithsimon]

Thanks :) I try my best to make them short - I value the time of anyone watching! But it's tough sometimes to be succinct! Feasible on tip video. .. but for the races, it's hard to condense too much without loosing the ups and downs of a 35hr race!

[@MARAC2102]

Didn't you forget something to notice also in trail runs, all kinds of bugs, smaller animals, spider webs, snakes spikey bushes etc. .. By the way very helpful self interview..stay well, God bless you 🫡💪

[@runningwithsimon]

I wouldn't mind not having mosquitoes...! But do love the occasional animal encounters! The bigger the better (as long as they don't eat me)...

[@shaundebwilson7403]

Being alone with the wind in my hair and fighting all the injuries disabilitys and arthritis. Everytime i get back i thank i can still do it. Good for the soul 👍

[@fitnessfreak498]

i love your channel , realy motivates me as a begginer

[@runningwithsimon]

Thanks :)

[@Leeroy49]

Thank you :)

[@runningwithsimon]

You're welcome!

[@Mookiethedog]

Great video.....I love the people....the Ironman peeps generally are too high strung....nature, mental & physical fitness. Hard to think of a reason not to get outside and feel grounded with this awesome planet we're on!

[@runningwithsimon]

There's a lot to see!

[@TheRst2001]

I cant run 1mile but enjoy your videos 😅. However im quietly gonna increase hikes and jogging this year . I like love to ride my mtb bike in the countryside but keen to improve muscle and ligament strength . And a bit of variation. Would love to be able to do some cross country running

[@runningwithsimon]

That's awesome - 1 mile at the time. And I think it's mostly about 'being out there'. So biking, hiking - they're all great!

[@kaymungaray7359]

To me - its an outlet - for all of the words I want to say - but - don't know how to say them.

[@runningwithsimon]

Lovely!

[@kevinhanna6112]

hi I am 59 and I have a marathon in Ireland 🇮🇪 April 2024 check my hear rate on half marathon trail runs and sad to say my h/r always to high (145 - 150+) NOT Zone 2 :( now i focus on my breathing and strict h/r 120+/- I feel it helps so I have more in the tank so to speak and enjoy not be in pain :( Love your channel and please what do you think ? Thanks , peace

[@runningwithsimon]

It's fine to run outside of zone 2 also. This is more of a training thing on the long runs, but i often train at higher than zone 2 for other runs. And to stay in zone 2, sometimes it will mean walking too, which is totally fine. With time the speed at which you can run while still in zone 2 will be higher. But it's a different type of adaptation, so fine to go in zone 3 for those 'middle distance' runs.

[@kevinhanna6112]

thanks so much for helping , sound advise I trust your content, be patient ,enjoy (much as you can !) and the results will come. Please tell us about breathing in an episode thanks again peace ✌️

[@manojsurya]

It feels good , and it feels good to have challenging milestones and discipline.that’s all there is I guess.

[@runningwithsimon]

Yeah pretty simple - it helps to have direction and something to work towards

[@michelleharnett1351]

Oops, watching this eating corn chips and drinking beer. The reason(s) I run, lol.

[@runningwithsimon]

lol don't worry, I won't tell anyone!

[@thomasorchard]

I am planning to do my first half marathon in May 2024 and this might sound like a stupid question but... Is it okay to walk for a few minutes and then go back to running? (Alternating based on my level of fatigue.) Or is this considered a no-no and my half marathon time won't count?

[@KPN79]

For sure you can use run/walk strategy. It's absolutely ok). Using run/walk depends on how you feel, what is your history of running, your current fitness level, and, of course, your own goal on this particular race. So, walking on a race is OK, don't worry about this)

[@runningwithsimon]

Totally fine to run / walk - sometimes that's even smarter. If you haven't seen it - check out my "how to run longer without getting tired" which does mention that and other things that have helped me adapt to long distance running! Good luck! :)

[@darrylyk]

I am 42, and I feel its abit late for me to start trail running ...LOL

[@KPN79]

I'm 44, and I can say you are in the right age for starting))

[@runningwithsimon]

42 is certainly not too late! I think that's pretty standard actually!

[@dreaming_butterfly1970]

i loved running but recently saw videos of dr. Sean Omara explaining how running makes the body accumulate visceral fat that is very bad for health. Now i am only doing sprints. Anyone with a theory about how this dr. may be wrong?

[@runningwithsimon]

Never heard of that and never heard of him. Call it denial, but I don't see much basis for such theory based on all observations I have from people that are long distance runner (or cyclists)

[@DOGEonPC]

1:14 wait, so I'm not being invited into a cult at all? What a bummer.

[@runningwithsimon]

To be fair, most cult aren't calling themselves a cult sooooo maybe?

[@moe381]

People who run dont look like they work out

[@cypriano8763]

lache pas le gros. change ton intro if you wanna quit your job.

[@runningwithsimon]

Merci!