What science says about running: it rejuvenates and reduces the risk of depression

Lo que dice la ciencia sobre el running: rejuvenece y reduce el riesgo de depresión

It has always been said that sports are health, and science confirms it. Exercising regularly not only improves physical well-being, but also helps prevent diseases and delay aging. Two recent scientific studies have shown that physical activity, such as running or cycling, has positive effects on health and longevity.

One of these studies, published in the journal PLoS One, analyzed energy consumption in people aged 60 and 70 who have practiced sports throughout their lives. The conclusion is surprising: those who have maintained consistent activity, such as running or cycling, retain energy efficiency comparable to that of a 20-year-old. This shows that staying active with sports like road cycling or mountain biking (MTB) can contribute to a better quality of life and greater physical endurance over the years.

But the benefits of sports are not limited to the physical aspect. The journal Investigación y Ciencia published another study revealing that moderate exercise is a key tool to prevent depression, facilitate recovery, and reduce the risk of relapses. This is due to an enzyme that accumulates in the muscles and protects the nervous system from biochemical changes associated with depressive states. In this sense, activities such as going out for a ride on mountain bikes along natural trails or enjoying long routes on a road bike can have a positive impact on both mental health and daily motivation.

 

These studies reinforce the importance of incorporating exercise into your daily routine. Whether running, riding trails on mountain bikes Whether training on open roads, staying active reduces aging, improves quality of life, and decreases the need for medical treatments and anxiolytics. Ultimately, sports are an investment in health that can make a difference in well-being over the years.