Running is a rigorous physical activity that appeals to a lot of people. A high-impact exercise, running has many cardiovascular and mental health benefits.

But running needs specific gear, such as socks, that complement the activity and protect the legs and feet from potential issues.

Read on to know what to keep in mind when choosing the best running socks!

Introduction

Running every day for at least 5 to 10 minutes can bring out many mental and physical health benefits. A study observed that adolescents who indulged in running for 30 minutes experienced improved sleep, mood, and concentration during the day.

But sometimes, runners risk getting injured due to improper technique or overwork. Avoid injuries by remembering the following:

• Gradually increase the intensity of the length of the run

• Wear the right running gear

• Warm up before starting to run

• Follow proper running form

Runners sometimes also get blisters and experience issues such as smelly feet. Choosing the best running socks is the easiest way to ensure safety and risks.

Benefits of running

There is an extensive list of benefits that fall under that gamut of running. These are:

• Strengthens the heart: Running improves the heart rate and strengthens the heart to pump more blood per beat. It minimizes the heart's load by lowering the resting heart rate and increasing the intake of oxygen in the body.

  As a result, the heart can pump a larger amount of blood and oxygen per beat to the body. Runnings also prevent the risk of blood clots in the arteries and blood vessels.

• Strengthens the lungs: The lungs handle bringing oxygen into the body. This provides energy and helps clear carbon dioxide from the body. Consistent running helps in improving lung ability, reduces breathlessness, and builds endurance. The lungs adapt to the habit and improve the air per breath intake.

• Builds stamina: Increased lung ability is most beneficial in building stamina. A steady pace jog for 10 minutes a day can stimulate the lungs to work harder. It does not make the lungers bigger, but it improves the intake of oxygen per breath.

  Running also improves the efficiency of the lungs easing out the burden of the heart for pumping blood and oxygen to the body.

• Builds muscle strength: Building muscle strength improves metabolism, strengthens the bones and muscles, and improves the overall strength of the body. Running helps builds leg muscles, increases body strength, and strengthens the core.

• Balances health markers: Consistent running lowers the blood pressure, and resting heart rate, improves blood sugar levels, and lowers cholesterol and triglycerides. Improving these markers reduces the risk of diseases and helps feel healthier.

  Running 30 minutes a few times per week reduces the levels of lipoprotein (LDL), also known as bad cholesterol. It helps stimulate the high-density lipoprotein (HDL), the good cholesterol.

• Reduces stress and boosts confidence: Running lowers the levels of cortisol in the body diffusing stress and anxiety, and giving a boost to confidence. The improved blood circulation to the brain due to running improves mood.

• Burns calories: To burn calories the engagement of the body's metabolism needs to be activated. As running is a physically demanding exercise, it helps in contributing to the calorie deficit needed for burning body fat.

Running gear essentials

Bamboo Ankle Socks. © Talking Sox

These are some essential gears needed to make the experience better:

Socks: One of the most important gears to remember for running are the socks. Socks improve the running experience and keep the runner safe. Choose the socks that help solve the feet problems.

The best fabric known for socks is bamboo fiber. Bamboo fiber socks help absorb moisture, prevent blisters, and can be used in winters and summers.

How to choose the best running socks

Bamboo fiber socks can help solve many foot issues and act as a protective layer for the feet:

• Thermoregulatory: Socks made from bamboo fiber have the natural tendency to keep the feet at homeostasis. This property makes them the best running socks as they can be used both in summers and winters.

• Moisture absorption: Running will make the feet sweat and the sweat needs to be wicked away immediately. Bamboo fiber socks have wick-away technology that helps in absorbing moisture and leaving the feet dry.

• Anti-bacterial: Bamboo fiber socks have anti-microbial properties that help in preventing the growth of microbes on the feet. This reduces the risk of fungal and bacterial infection on the feet and toes.

• Odorless: socks made of bamboo fiber absorb the sweat leaving no room for bacteria to breed. This reduces the chances of the runner having smelly feet.

• Blister prevention: Bamboo fiber socks are soft like silk. They act as a protective layer between the shoes and the feet. Dry feet and softer sock fabric reduce the chances of blister formation.

• Durable: Bamboo fiber socks are more durable than other fabric socks. Bamboo fiber gives strength.

Buy natural bamboo fiber socks for your running needs here.

Conclusion

Running improves health and mood, but does one need to do it every day?

Not necessarily. Schedule the running day along with rest days and cross-training days. Mix running with other activities such as cycling and swimming.

If you are starting fresh or are a beginner, start with lesser amounts of running and do other exercises.

If you are a trained professional who is getting back to running after a break, consult your doctor and trainer to plan out the best schedule for your benefit.

Either way, remember that your shoes and socks are the most important gear for running. Select the ones that provide you with the most benefits.