Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a novice with a resolution, this could be your year to take on a marathon.
And if you're eyeing the Publix Atlanta Marathon or another 26.2-mile jaunt in 2020, your heart may thank you.
A new study found that running a marathon can take years off your "artery health."
Researchers at Barts and University College of London followed 138 runners as they took on the London Marathon. They tracked the participants over six months of training and found that their arteries had regained "youthful elasticity," according to the BBC.
The elasticity in your arteries can reduce the risk of heart attack and strokes. Smaller amounts of aerobic exercise can have a similar effect, the researchers note.
According to the BBC, the participants finished the marathon, on average, in four and a half to five and half hours.
So, if you're lacing up your running shoes and hitting the trail to train: There's still time to register for the Publix Atlanta Marathon, although the race on March 1 is fast approaching.
According to Runner’s World, typical marathon runners should set aside between 16 and 20 weeks for training prior to race day, with runs between 3-5 times per week.
For training plans for beginners, you can find more information from Runner's World here.
The Atlanta Track Club also holds training runs leading up to Atlanta's Marathon, more information can be found here.
Here’s a look at some marathons being held in Georgia in 2020:
