Ron Olsthoorn

Financial adviser and real estate developer Ron Olsthoorn understand the stress of modern, professional life. As he's found success in various business arenas, Ron has also been committed to good physical and mental health. For Ron, this means running.

An avid and longtime runner, Ron has participated in various marathons:

Toronto International Marathon

Boston Marathon

Numerous half marathons

He's also a member of the Burlington Runners' Club (BRC) in Burlington, Ontario, Canada. The BRC was begun in 1973 and has a roster of over 200 active runners who range in age from 15 to 75 years old. Participating in the BRC helps Ron keep running an integral part of his life.

Mental and Physical Benefits of Running

Numerous studies have shown that inactivity and obesity are serious killers in North America. For most people, both their working and leisure time is spent sitting in front of a computer. By incorporating running into his life, Ron Olsthoorn has found he's improving his physical and mental health.

Some of the physical benefits runners enjoy include:

Better circulation.

Strong immune system.

Increasing bone and muscle strength.

Lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Lose or maintain weight.

Moderate hormone levels to prevent Diabetes, strokes, and premature aging.

Improved functioning of lungs, heart, and brain.

As advantageous these physical health benefits are, Ron is equally enthusiastic about the mental benefits running provides. While the "runner's high" has been documented, the real mental and emotional benefits are more precise than just "feeling good."

Running has been documented to:

Reduce stress levels.

Release positive endorphins.

Increase energy.

Alleviate depression.

Improve moods.

Ron Olsthoorn is equally adamant that running benefits people in even more ways. Ron could not have found the professional success he has without understanding how to achieve his goals. Achieving one's goals means learning how to set them; and having the discipline to work hard and delay gratification to see them to fruition.

Running is a practice that teaches discipline, hard work, focus, and goal setting.