Five Ways Running Makes You Better at Your Job

There’s far more to running than toned legs, a strong heart and the capacity to turn any pizza into a personal pizza. In fact, research is starting to show running’s potential as a way to make you better at just about anything—including your work. So if you’re looking for a reason to get out the door, consider any of the following as a professional nudge:

Running makes you better at work

Running improves your memory.

A study by the University of British Columbia showed that regular aerobic exercise increases the size of the hippocampus, the part of the brain involved in memory retention. This may not only help you keep track of things today, but for the rest of your life; hippocampus shrinkage is linked to dementia, and those who continue to exercise regularly as they age seem to fare better for longer in that department.

Running makes you better at work

Running increases your ability to learn.

Researchers at the University of Arizona discovered that the brains of runners had greater functional connections than those of sedentary but otherwise healthy people in the areas of the brain involved in processing information and making decisions. Also (positively) affected: the brain’s ability to multitask and pay attention. Which brings us to…

Running makes you better at work

Running can improve focus.

Interval running has repeatedly (get it?) been shown to improve aspects of “executive function,” which includes the ability to tune out distractions, stay focused, and solve problems. And a different study of young adults showed that the simple act of running allowed subjects to both sleep better and focus better on tasks.

Running makes you better at work

Running lifts your mood, and can improve confidence.

Multiple studies have shown that the release of beneficial chemicals like endorphins and endocannabinoids during prolonged exercise cause a significant mood-boost. But they also help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of calm—both helpful when you’re facing challenges.

Running increases creativity.

Letting your legs wander helps your mind do the same. In addition to increased oxygen flow to the brain, the meditative qualities of running help clear your mind and make space for your best ideas. With all that evidence behind it, one thing is clear: An easy route to getting ahead at work is to get out for a run.