Why Running Could Transform Your Body and Mind — and How to Maximise It at the Gym

Here at REVIVAL Personal Training in Hammersmith, we’re passionate about helping our community thrive — not just physically, but mentally too. Running remains one of the most accessible and transformational forms of exercise, especially when paired with smart strength training at the gym.

Whether you're hitting the Thames Path for a scenic run past Hammersmith Bridge or enjoying a few laps around Ravenscourt Park, here’s why you should consider lacing up those trainers today.

3 Physical Benefits of Running

1. Improved Cardiovascular Health

Running is a fantastic way to strengthen your heart and lungs. Regular runs — even 20–30 minutes around Furnivall Gardens or along King Street — help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and increase heart efficiency.

2. Fat Loss and Toning

Running burns serious calories while also engaging your core, legs, and glutes. The varied terrain you’ll find in places like Brook Green can make your body work even harder, leading to better muscle tone and overall fat loss.

3. Stronger Bones and Joints

Despite myths to the contrary, controlled running actually strengthens bones by improving bone density, especially when supported by proper strength work. Our REVIVAL trainers can show you how to complement your runs to protect your joints for the long haul.

3 Mental Benefits of Running

1. Stress Reduction

Nothing beats a run along the river when life feels overwhelming. Running naturally releases endorphins — our body's "feel-good" hormones — helping to lower cortisol levels and providing a deep sense of calm.

2. Boosted Creativity and Problem-Solving

Many of our clients find that running clears mental fog. A steady-paced jog through Bishop’s Park or along the Thames can give you the headspace to solve problems or spark creative ideas you hadn’t thought of before.

3. Increased Confidence and Mental Resilience

Setting and achieving running goals — whether it’s 3k, 5k, or beyond — builds self-esteem. As you push through physical barriers, your mental toughness strengthens too, spilling over into other parts of your life.

3 Gym Exercises to Supercharge Your Running

At REVIVAL Personal Training, we recommend integrating these exercises into your weekly training to help support and elevate your running:

1. Bulgarian Split Squats

This single-leg exercise massively improves stability, glute strength, and hip mobility — all essential for powerful, injury-free running. We love incorporating these into sessions right here in our Hammersmith studio.

2. Deadlifts (Romanian or Conventional)

Deadlifts strengthen the posterior chain (glutes, hamstrings, and lower back) — a crucial area for runners. They also improve posture and protect against common injuries like hamstring strains.

3. Plank Variations (Front Plank, Side Plank)

Core strength is key for maintaining form over longer distances. Strong abdominals and obliques mean less energy wastage and a much more efficient stride.

If you’re looking to maximise the benefits of running — physically, mentally, and beyond — come and chat to the team at REVIVAL Personal Training. Whether you’re training for your first 5K at Wormwood Scrubs Park or just want to feel your best on the weekend jog, we’ll tailor a plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.

Ready to transform? Visit us in the heart of Hammersmith or book your free consultation today.