Just had to touch the wire, didn't you?
"Despite all its benefits, running isnt without risk. Every year, 36 million people in the United States run, and 40% to 50% of them suffer at least one running injury."
In new research announced last week, scientists examined which sports were the most likely to lead to knee arthritis. At the top of the list was both recreational and elite soccer, followed by competitive long-distance running,... from http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/health/articles/2011/11/10/new_research_ranks_top_sports_to_wreck_your_knees/
So your running magazines promote running. Great, good for you, now you believe what you want.
- Why Runners Dont Get Knee Arthritis
"One of the most entrenched beliefs about running, at least among nonrunners, is that it causes arthritis and ruins knees.
But a nifty new study finds that this idea is a myth and distance running is unlikely to contribute to the development of arthritis..."
- Running Bad for Your Knees? Maybe Not
"Not only is there no connection between running and arthritis, the new studies say, but running
and perhaps regular vigorous exercise generally may even help protect people from joint problems later on."
- Runners are not giving themselves arthritis
"The notion that the wear and tear of running causes arthritic knees and ankles is not backed up by studies."
- Does Long-Distance Running Cause Osteoarthritis?
"... the preponderance of data seems to indicate that moderate levels of running do not increase the risk of osteoarthritis of the knees and hips ...
The risks of running as noted should be weighed against the tremendous benefits of this activity to the other body systems ...
This kind of physical activity has also been shown to help with weight control, to improve bone density, and to decrease mortality."
Running also has tremendous, positive benefits for those who suffer with mental disorders, ahem, cough, cough.