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Can You Run on Shabbat

I enjoy running on a daily basis, but I’m not sure it’s permitted to run on Shabbat.

Can you run on shabbat?

Answer:

It is not generally permitted to run for exercise purposes on Shabbos.

However, if you take pleasure in running — not pleasure in the “workout” but in running per se — it is permitted.

See also sources, below.

Best wishes

Sources:

In general, it is not permitted to exercise (aerobic and muscle workouts) on Shabbos, for two reasons: 1) because this is considered refu’ah, an act of healing; 2) because this contradicts the concept of rest on Shabbos — most people who exercise for health reasons still have to strain for it, and this is not restful (Shulchan Aruch 301:1; Aruch Hashulchan 301:44).

However, the Shulchan Aruch (301:2) writes that for youth who derive pleasure from running, it is permitted to run on Shabbos, and this is extended by the Shemiras Shabbos Kehilchasa (citing from Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach; 16:39 note 99) to exercising: If somebody takes pleasure from the exercising, and it is not merely for health reasons, it is permitted to do so.

However, you have be a careful judge over what is considered “enjoyable” and what is strenuous but beneficial. Children enjoy running around, and although they exercise they do not find it a strain; this is true for many sports, but usually not the case for lifting weights. However, if it is pleasurable for you, it is permitted.

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