The participation of middle aged people in marathons has increased over the last few decades. Researchers found that preparing for a marathon- reduced heart disease risk factor among men, aged 35 to 65.
Studies show that these middle aged marathon runners have much lower heart risks than similar aged non runners.
One of the biggest benefits of running is that it's good for your health. Running is an excellent way to strengthen the heart and ensure efficient flow of blood and oxygen throughout the body, which helps decrease your risk of a heart attack.
Studies also show that, exercise stimulates enzymes that help move LDL from the blood (and blood-vessel walls) to the liver. From there, cholesterol is converted into bile (for digestion) or excreted. So, the more you exercise, the more LDL your body expels and your blood’s LDL gets lowered, which protects you from heart disease.
Exercise increases the size of the protein particles that carry cholesterol through the blood. (The combination of these protein particles and cholesterol are called "lipoproteins;" it's the LDLs that have been linked to heart disease). Some of those particles are small and dense; some are big and fluffy. The small, dense particles are more dangerous than the big, fluffy ones because the smaller ones can squeeze into the linings of the heart and blood vessels and set up shop there. But now it appears that exercise increases the size of the protein particles that carry both good and bad lipoproteins.
Running also keeps your blood pressure lower by keeping your cholesterol levels normal in the body.
Running not only prevents you from heart related problems but also improves your immune system, so your body functions more effective and efficient at fighting off germs. Also, while running, your body temperature rises which prevents the growth of bacteria, allowing your body to fight infection more effectively.
So, participating in a marathon is really beneficial for your heart.