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Almost every long-term smoker knows that quitting smoking is one of the most important things they can do for their health. The problem? Quitting is hard. But for many, running and exercising may be the best way to overcome the habit. Here’s what you need to know about leveraging running to quit smoking.
The Benefits of Running as a Smoking Cessation Tool
Running offers several great benefits for those trying to quit smoking. First, it is a proven way to reduce stress and anxiety, two of the main reasons why people smoke. Also, as runners exercise, their bodies release endorphins, which make them feel good. This helps to take their minds off of smoking and keeps them feeling positive.
Exercising to Beat Cravings and Quit Smoking
The next benefit is that running helps to beat cravings. Running increases heart rate and breathing, which helps to reduce nicotine cravings. It also helps to break the cycle of associating smoking with other habits, like drinking coffee or having a cigarette after a meal. Running creates a new, healthy habit that can replace these old routines.
Using Running to Quit Smoking for Good
To quit smoking for good, it’s important to stick to a regular running schedule. This will give your body and mind time to adjust to a smoke-free lifestyle. In addition, reward yourself with something special after running, such as a massage or a treat. The reward will help to reinforce the habit and make it easier to stick with it.
The Surprising Health Benefits of Combining Running and Quitting Smoking
In addition to the emotional and mental benefits, running and quitting smoking may have other health benefits. For example, running can strengthen the lungs and help to reduce the damage done by smoking. Also, running helps to improve cardiovascular health, which can help to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Harnessing the Power of Running to Quit Smoking
With the right attitude and dedication, running can help you to quit smoking for good. So if you’re ready to quit, consider running as an alternative to traditional quitting methods. With regular exercise, you can reduce stress, beat cravings, and even improve your physical health.
Quitting smoking is a big step that can bring amazing rewards. By combining running with quitting, you can give yourself the best chance to make the change for good. So lace up your shoes, and start running towards a healthier, smoke-free life.
Conclusion
Quitting smoking is a major life decision, and it can be difficult to make it happen without the proper support. Running can be a great way to quit smoking and stay smoke-free, as it offers mental and physical benefits that can help you beat cravings and build a healthier lifestyle. So if you’re ready to quit smoking and get healthy, consider taking up running as a quit smoking aid.
Sources
- The American Cancer Society. “Benefits of Quitting Smoking Over Time.” Cancer.org, American Cancer Society, 11 April 2018, www.cancer.org/healthy/stay-away-from-tobacco/benefits-of-quitting-smoking-over-time.html.
- Champion, Victoria. “How Running Helps You Quit Smoking.” Active.com, Active Network, 12 March 2018, www.active.com/fitness/articles/how-running-helps-you-quit-smoking.
- Kott, Carissa. “Can Exercise Help You Quit Smoking?” verywellmind.com, Verywell Mind, 18 April 2019, www.verywellmind.com/can-exercise-help-you-quit-smoking-2825263.
