Professor Jung Se-hee of the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at Seoul Boramae Hospital runs on the track in Boramae Park, Seoul, Oct. 30. Just three days before this photo, she completed the Chuncheon Marathon at 3:42:11.

Korea Times photo by Ha Sang-yoon A doctor-runner's insights from 22 years of running By KTimes Jung Se-hee, 47, a rehabilitation medicine professor at Seoul National University College of Medicine and Seoul Boramae Hospital, has been a committed runner since 2003. She logs 10 kilometers along the river every morning, has completed over 30 full marathons and achieves semi-professional marathon times in the three-hour range. Jung welcomes the recent running boom, especially among those in their 20s and 30s recognizing the physical and mental benefits of the sport.

However, she notes that misconceptions are spreading along with the trend, confusing beginners with debates about the “perfect” form and technique. Olympic marathon gold medalist Hwang Young-jo even joined YouTube recently to fuel the disputes. To clarify, Jung, both a physician and seasoned runner, says, “I hope people don’t waste time and money on misguided advice.

Rather than worrying about foot placement, it’s more beneficial to run as often as possible.” Here, Jung offers insights on how to enjoy running healthily and happily for the long term. Q: What’s the appeal of running? A: Running benefits both body and mind, bringing vitality and reducing daily stress.

Thoughts come .