Always running the same routes, parkruns or races? It could be time to shake things up. Researchers from Edith Cowan University in Australia concluded that travel could defy premature ageing. The study found that positive experiences like this enhance health through exposure to novel environments, engagement in physical activities and social interaction.
You don't have to go abroad, either – simply visiting a neighbouring town can deliver a fresh perspective. November is packed with great UK races, from 10Ks through to ultras, and of course there’s always the option of parkrun tourism. (There are currently 1,288 parkruns in the UK alone, with more added all the time.)
For the study, the researchers applied the “theory of entropy” to tourism, concluding the travel could potentially slow down the signs of aging. Entropy is cheerily defined as “the general trend of the universe towards death and disorder”. However, positive experiences, such as those experienced when visiting a novel environment, might mitigate entropy and enhance health.
‘Ageing, as a process, is irreversible,’ said researcher Ms Fangli Hu. ‘But while it can’t be stopped, it can be slowed down.’
Active tourism can encompass hiking, climbing, cycling and, of course, running. Physical activity can boost metabolism and energy expenditure – potentially boosting the body’s immune system.
‘Participating in these activities could enhance the body’s immune function and self-defence capabilities, bolstering its hardiness to external risks,’ says Hu. ‘Physical exercise may also improve blood circulation, expedite nutrient transport and aid waste elimination to collectively maintain an active self-healing system. Moderate exercise is beneficial to the bones, muscles and joints in addition to supporting the body's anti-wear-and-tear system.’
It’s fair to say, however, that the researchers had moderate activities in mind. Don’t sign up to the 268-mile, nonstop What is overpronation Advertisement - Continue Reading Below.
Rick Pearson is the senior editor at Runner’s World UK. He’s been with the brand since 2017 and loves testing PB-friendly shoes for on and off road. Rick is a sub-three marathoner and occasionally likes to remind people of this on the Runner’s World podcast, which he co-hosts. He once raced a steam train over 14 miles (he won, narrowly) and a horse over a marathon (he lost, comfortably).
