Bones, Joints, and Running

"Fact or Fiction: Running is bad for your bones and joints.

"FICTION. Lots of people assume that the high-impact nature of running must take a ngative toll on your bones and joints. Yet scientific evidence suggests the opposite: High-impact activities, such as running, can help increase bone mass, thus improving bone health. In addition, numerous studies have concluded that running does not increase the risk of joint disease and osteoarthritis--even after several decades of participating in the sport. Physiologists agree that humans were built to run. So when we run with proper form--and a good pair of running shoes--our bodies are strengthened, not torn down, as we log the miles."

- Runner's World, August 2007