As runners, we often think that we're immune from many of the ailments of the rest of society.  Run a couple of miles a few times a week and we're good to go.  Eat what we want.  Drink what we want.  Late nights & early mornings.  60 hour work weeks.  Those 15 miles a week provide a shield against disease and illness...........right?  Well, as the college football announcer Keith Jackson used to say - Whoa, Nellie.

 

Runner or not, we face the same health issues as the rest of society.  Like everyone else, we can be afflicted with heart disease, cancer, immune disorders, diabetes, dementia and Alzheimer's.  Just check out the stories of Jim Fixx, Ryan Shay and Grete Waitz and you'll see that miles do not make one invincible.  Heck, many of us probably know someone within the Run Wild Missoula membership who suffers from a significant health condition.

 

Fortunately, all is not lost.  While those weekly miles aren't a complete shield, they are a great first line of defense.  Regular exercise has been shown to improve heart health; reduces the risk of developing diabetes; can help manage blood pressure; and, can help you reduce stress.  So, putting on those running shoes and hitting the roads, tracks and trails is a great start.  But, by itself, it's not enough.

 

Strength training can increase the health of your bones and joints; and, bone and joint health really does become a "use it or lose it" proposition as we age.  A healthy diet can help you manage your weight, reduce the risk of certain cancers and give you the energy you need for full, active days.  Adequate sleep is essential to allowing your body to rest and recharge.  Managing stress is also critical to our mental and physical health.  Whether you meditate, practice yoga or take the proverbial "long, hot bath", it's important to regularly take time to set aside the daily stress.

 

If nothing else, being fit, active and healthy will improve your day to day quality of life.  It can allow you to do things like play catch in the park with your kids.  Take part in that epic trail run.  Backpack with friends to that spectacular mountain lake.  Spend the day on the river with your college pals.  Take a long walk along the river with your sweetie.  Watch your children and grandchildren grow up.  Do you really want to miss out on those experiences and memories?

 

Finally, don't forget those yearly physicals and preventative exams.  Many afflictions can be very effectively treated if caught early.  However, that can't happen if you don't take the time to make the appointment.  You owe it to yourself, your friends, families and loved ones.  We only get one shot at this thing called life.  Why not take care of yourself so that you can live it to the fullest?

 

Because, really, we want to continue to see you on the roads, tracks and trails.

 

Tony