We all know running can improve our physical health, but new research highlights the potential it also has to improve our mental health.
A year-long survey of more than 13,000 people in the United Kingdom by England Athletics has revealed that 74% of runners report having experienced improvements in their mental health and wellbeing from running.
What's more, an additional survey of the England Athletics' RunTogether community found that a staggering 89% of runners said that they had increased happiness as a direct result of running in a group.
In light of the findings, we asked runners up and down the country why they pound the pavement each week.
From dealing with grief and regaining strength after a life-changing accident to meeting new friends and de-stressing after work, here are their stories.
"To overcome grief." - Diana Postle, 65, Norwich
