It’s common knowledge that running causes inflammation and soreness in our knee joints.

However, new research studies have shown that pro-inflammatory molecules actually reduce in the joints after running. In other words, it appears that running can reduce joint inflammation.

The same research goes on to state that for young, healthy individuals, exercise creates an anti-inflammatory environment in the body that may be beneficial for maintaining good joint health. This suggests that running is in fact chondroprotective and can help delay the onset of joint degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis.

This is potentially great news as osteoarthritis, a painful disease where cartilage at the end of bones wears down affects many adults.