Becoming a runner changes your body

by Martha Edwards (Subscribe to Martha Edwards's posts)
Mar 5th 2008 1:15PM

Categories: Fitness

When I took up running, I noticed a few changes to my body, namely:

I felt taller and leaner
I had more energy
My knees hurt like heck.

I'm working on the knee thing, but all things considered, I think my decision to take up running was a good one. Truth is, running does some amazing things to your body, and taking up a regular running routine will do you a world of good.

Not convinced? Check out this article on the great benefits of running. The gist of it? You'll strengthen your heart (thereby reducing your risk of heart trouble later in life,) you'll increase your cardiovascular endurance (so no more huffing and puffing when you climb the stairs from the basement,) and you'll train your body to burn fat as its energy source (and who doesn't want that?)

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lee 3-11-2008 @ 4:56PM

i have been running since the age of 19. I am now 35. Im 5'6 and 140lbs. I watch what i eat and always have...i am now doing the 5 meals...protein and carb small portions every 3 hours. (i struggle with sweet cravings and cheat about 2x per week)
I used to complain about my legs being too skinny..always toned and muscular..but wanted them bigger. I only noticed gaining fat on my stomach. Now, since after the age of 30 (and getting worse) it all is on my legs! Myupper legs and hips seem to be collecting fat! Does a certain type of diet cause wieght gain in diff areas or has my body shape completely changes because of my age? I went from now butt and legs..all stomach to the complete opposite?
what the heck?