Running is one of the most popular sports in the world!

Practiced by millions of people for its physical and mental benefits. But beyond the obvious health benefits, did you know that running hides many unusual and surprising facts? In this article, we'll explore aspects of running that you probably didn't know about!

1. Running Can Help Improve Memory

Studies show that regular running stimulates the production of new cells in the hippocampus, a region of the brain linked to memory and learning. In other words, putting on your running shoes can improve your long-term memory and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. So, the next time you have a revision session or an important project, a quick run could give your brain a boost!

2. Running Can Improve Your Eyesight

While eye health may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about running, there does appear to be a connection. Studies show that physical activity, such as running, can reduce the risk of developing eye diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration. Running improves blood circulation throughout the body, including the eyes, helping to protect them.

3. The World Record for Running... Without Sleeping!

Dean Karnazes, an American ultramarathon runner, set an impressive record: he ran for 80 hours without sleep, covering a distance of 560 kilometers. Karnazes has a rare genetic trait that helps him avoid lactic acid buildup, allowing him to run continuously for days. An impressive feat that shows that sometimes running exceeds the limits of what we believe to be possible.

4. Running Can Reverse the Effects of Cellular Aging

Running regularly won't make you immortal, but it could slow down aging at the cellular level. One study found that telomeres—the protective "caps" at the ends of our chromosomes, which shorten with age—remain longer in long-distance runners. In other words, running helps your cells stay young longer, and it may even add years to your life expectancy.

5. Runners Sense Their Environment Differently

Running improves sensory perception in general, but runners are often more sensitive to smell. Why? Because the intense, rhythmic breathing involved in running stimulates airflow through the nasal passages, temporarily improving olfactory sensitivity. This could explain why runners experience smells more intensely when they run, whether it's the freshness of nature or the smell of city streets.

These unusual facts show that running is much more than just physical exercise. Whether you run for health, for pleasure, or for a personal challenge, this sport holds fascinating secrets and unexpected benefits. The next time you go for a run, you'll have new anecdotes to fuel your passion and help you enjoy every stride!