Running has been proven to be beneficial to the body. Whether you are running outside or using the gym for your workouts, many health benefits can be derived from a good run. It is one of the most effective cardiovascular exercises that increase the metabolic rate of the body, producing a better burn and facilitating faster weight loss. The secretion of endorphins or "feel good" hormones in the body removes stress and makes the runner feel relaxed and centered. It has also been shown to be beneficial in increasing bone mass, staving off diseases like osteoporosis. This is because the pressure placed on the legs and the back makes it a weight bearing exercise as well. It has profound effects on improving the body's functions that studies have shown that individuals who run regularly have longer life spans compared to those who do not. Where the mental effects of running are concerned, it has been shown to stimulate the areas in the brain involved in memory and learning. Besides, no other equipment except for a good pair of running shoes and some decent clothes, are needed when you run.

In the event that the weather does not make an outside run feasible, running on a treadmill is an easy alternative. The treadmill is a very common home exercise machine that is easy to operate and use. The surface is cushioned, more even and slip-resistant when compared to outside paths and trails. It also has functions that can be controlled by the user to adjust speed and incline. Even warm up periods, cool downs and expenditure of energy can be adjusted by the runner. High-end treadmills feature heart rate monitors that help you track if you have already reached your target heart rate. Some can even count the number of steps you have taken as well. An added benefit is that you can put your treadmill in the living room so you can watch your favorite program while exercising at the same time.

But not all is positive where running is concerned. One of the disadvantages is that it is a high-impact exercise that puts too much stress on the joints. Knees and ankle joints are the most commonly affected in a running regimen. Even on the cushioned surface of a treadmill machine, running may still be too much for the back and hips, making it difficult for those who are overweight or those with joint problems to engage in it effectively as an exercise without risking injury. Women who run without supportive sports bras find that their breasts sag with a continued running regimen. And because running outside is not possible when the weather does not allow it, investing in a treadmill can get very expensive. You will need to fork out a thousand dollars or more to get one with good quality. Running on a treadmill can also get boring after a while especially since walking and running are virtually the only exercises that can be done on them. Finally, since you will have to call a professional for repairs when it breaks down, maintaining a treadmill can get pretty expensive.