The Rise of Run Clubs

Running has always been a popular form of exercise, but in recent years, run clubs have exploded in popularity around the world. These clubs offer more than just a way to stay fit; they provide a sense of community, foster relationships, and make running a fun, social activity.

Why OFFFIELD Loves a Good Run Club

We try our best to show up to as many local run clubs as possible. Sometimes incognito, sometimes with big OFFFIELD branded cooler filled with High Performance Sports Drinks. We do this not only because we love the sense of community and the amazing friendships we've made, but also because we learn so much from people that value their health across every level of health. Run Clubs attract elite athletes and people just getting started. We use this pool of knowledge to create better products, share our learnings, and improve what we do and how we do it.

Let’s explore why run clubs are gaining traction and the benefits they bring to their members.

A Global Trend

Run clubs are sprouting up everywhere, from major cities to small towns. According to a survey by the Running USA, the number of running club members in the United States alone has increased by 25% over the past five years. Globally, the picture is similar. The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) reports that the number of organized running events and clubs has grown by 30% in the same period. These statistics highlight a significant shift towards group running as a preferred way to engage in the sport.

Benefits of Joining a Run Club

1. Building Community and Relationships

One of the biggest draws of run clubs is the sense of community they offer. Running with a group can transform a solitary activity into a social one. Members often form close bonds, supporting and encouraging each other both on and off the track. This camaraderie extends beyond running; many clubs organize social events, volunteer opportunities, and group outings.

For instance, the November Project, a free fitness movement that started in Boston, has expanded to cities worldwide, emphasizing community and inclusivity. Members gather for early morning workouts, creating a strong sense of belonging and mutual support.

2. Staying Motivated

Running with a club provides a built-in support system that helps members stay motivated. It’s easier to get out of bed for a morning run when you know your friends are waiting for you. The collective energy of a group can also push individuals to run further and faster than they might on their own.

Studies have shown that social support significantly boosts motivation and adherence to exercise routines. A study published in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine found that individuals who exercised with a group were 20% more likely to continue their workouts over time compared to those who exercised alone.

3. Health and Fitness Benefits

Of course, one of the primary benefits of joining a run club is improved health and fitness. Regular running can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve cardiovascular health, and boost mental well-being. The social aspect of run clubs adds an extra layer of mental health benefits, reducing feelings of loneliness and depression.

Run clubs often cater to all fitness levels, making it easy for beginners to get started and for seasoned runners to challenge themselves. Many clubs offer structured training programs, tips from experienced runners, and even access to professional coaching.

4. Exploring New Routes

Running in a group can also introduce members to new routes and areas they might not explore on their own. Many run clubs organize group runs in different locations, offering a fresh perspective and making running more interesting. Whether it’s a scenic trail, a city park, or a new neighborhood, exploring together can make the experience enjoyable and adventurous.

The rise of run clubs around the world is a testament to the growing appreciation for community, health, and social connections. These clubs provide a supportive and motivating environment that helps individuals stay committed to their fitness goals while building meaningful relationships. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting, joining a run club could be the perfect way to enhance your running experience and enjoy the many benefits it offers. So lace up your shoes, find a local run club, pop open an OFFFIELD High Performance Sports Drink and become part of the movement!

Tracking Your Enjoyment

A study titled “Enjoyment as a Predictor of Exercise Habit, Intention to Continue Exercising, and Exercise Frequency” emphasizes the critical role of exercise enjoyment in promoting long-term adherence to fitness routines. It found that when individuals engage in exercise that aligns with their preferred intensity, they experience higher levels of enjoyment, leading to stronger exercise habits, more frequent workouts, and a greater intention to continue exercising.

Enjoyment acts as a motivating factor, reinforcing positive feelings and commitment to regular exercise. Tailoring workouts to match individual preferences for intensity can enhance the pleasure of exercise, ultimately fostering better engagement and sustainability in health club settings.

Another study found that cannabis may be a primary motivator for people to exercise more often because it elevates their enjoyment. This is a key factor for OFFFIELD, as we are endurance athletes in every sense of the word. We’re not just focused on getting to the finish line quicker in our next marathon, but also getting to the finish line way slower when it comes to life.

All of our products are formulated to activate your Endocannabinoid System, responsible for regulating mood during exercise. Our High Performance line of products, including Energy Gummies and Sports Drinks specifically focus on enjoyment as a key contributor to overall performance enhancement.

The Bliss Molecule

Have you ever heard of a molecule, Anandamide? It's a special chemical in your body known as the “bliss molecule,” that helps you feel happy and relaxed.

When you run or do lots of exercise, sometimes you get a great feeling afterward or during longer duration training. This is called the Runner's High (you may have noticed we’re obsessed with it). Scientists used to think this was only because of endorphins, which are like natural painkillers. But now they know anandamide, a cannabinoid we produce in our body, is also the primary reason for the effects in both mind and body.

Anandamide works by fitting into receptors throughout your body, kind of like a key fitting into a lock. When this happens, it makes you feel good… real good. Funny enough, these receptors are the same ones that react to the chemicals in cannabis, or phyto-cannabinoids. Although similar, Anandamide is created by your own body.

So next time you're out running and start to feel amazing, you can thank anandamide. And if you want to hit it a little earlier, you can try our products designed to mimic our best buddy Anandamide. You don’t have to thank us, but we do accept compliments.

New Study Reveals Benefits: Reduced Anxiety, Lower Obesity Risk, and Enhanced Memory

A groundbreaking new study conducted by researchers at Washington State University has revealed several significant health benefits associated with cannabis use, including a reduced risk of anxiety and obesity, as well as enhanced memory function. The findings, published in *Scientific Reports*, offer fresh insights into how CBG may impact mental and physical health.

Key Findings

1. Reduction in Anxiety:

The study found that individuals who had used cannabis within the past month were 31% less likely to experience anxiety compared to non-users. Participants who consumed cannabis recently showed marked resilience to stress, with significantly lower anxiety levels during the trial. These findings suggest that, particularly CBG, may offer a natural and effective means of managing anxiety without the cognitive impairments often associated with traditional treatments [oai_citation:1,Cannabigerol (CBG) Reduces Anxiety and Improves Memory - Neuroscience News] [oai_citation:2,CBG found to reduce anxiety and enhance memory in clinical trial]().

2. Lower Risk of Obesity:

Another surprising outcome of the study was the discovery that recent cannabis users were also 31% less likely to be obese. This finding challenges the common stereotype that cannabis use leads to weight gain due to increased appetite or "the munchies." Instead, the study suggests that cannabinoids may influence metabolism, appetite regulation, and energy balance in ways that contribute to a healthier weight profile [oai_citation:3,Cannabigerol (CBG) Reduces Anxiety and Improves Memory - Neuroscience News] [oai_citation:4,CBG found to reduce anxiety and enhance memory in clinical trial]

3. Enhanced Memory Function:

In addition to reducing anxiety and obesity risk, the study found that CBG may enhance memory, particularly verbal recall. CBG appeared to improve participants' ability to remember and recall information. This finding could have significant implications for those seeking to manage anxiety without sacrificing cognitive function [oai_citation:5,CBG Shows Promise in Reducing Anxiety Without Intoxication - ScienceBlog.com]

Implications and Future Research:

These findings highlight the potential of cannabinoids like CBG in addressing some of the most pressing health concerns today, including anxiety disorders and obesity. As more people seek natural alternatives to pharmaceuticals, the role of cannabis in health and wellness continues to expand. However, while these results are promising, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these effects and to explore the long-term impacts of cannabis use on mental and physical health.

Future studies will likely focus on the physiological effects of cannabis, such as its impact on heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels, as well as its broader implications for cognitive and metabolic health. Additionally, researchers are keen to investigate how different cannabinoids interact and what combinations might offer the most therapeutic benefits.

For those interested in exploring the details, the full study is available here [oai_citation:6,Cannabigerol (CBG) Reduces Anxiety and Improves Memory - Neuroscience News] CBG found to reduce anxiety and enhance memory in clinical trial].