It's almost too easy. Because
running is an excellent way to lose weight.
However, a lot of people are afraid of running because of dozens of misconceptions.
Running would be too tiring... you'd need to be slim before
you start running, running would be bad for your knees, it would be too
tiring, etc., etc.
But by correctly easing yourself into a running routine
you will be surprised how easy the transition from walking to running
is.
And anyway the rewards of running (amount of calories lost
per mile) should be enough to get you going.
Lose Weight by Running Tip #1:
Lifestyle Change
Steve Moneghetti, Australian Olympian said he had two simple rules to
stay slim:
1) Eat absolutely everything you want.
2) Run at least 100 km per week....
If you are, however, a bit more human than a super-athlete, you will
have to watch what your eating as well. If you are running to lose
weight and continue with bad eating habits; your efforts are counter
productive.
Running will help you burn off extra
calories, but if you continue to pack on those calories then
you will not lose weight.
Start by changing your eating habits. Cut down fats
and high calorie foods and increase your intake of fruits, vegetables
and whole grains. Replacing the junk with good food helps the body metabolize
fat more efficiently.
Lose Weight by Running Tip #2:
Make Routines Your friend
Set a regular running routine and make sure you run often; at
least three times a week. Running once a week will
have little or no benefit
Lose Weight by Running Tip #3:
Mix it up
Change your running route often. This will help with your motivation.
Becoming unmotivated is one of the most common ways that people give up
on running. The running becomes boring and mundane. Choose a running
route that offers interesting landmarks and is relaxing.
Lose Weight by Running Tip #4:
Kick it up a Notch
When you get into the groove of running, push
yourself further each time. This doesn't necessarily mean change the
distances, but means find ways to make the run more challenging.
Incorporate a hilly section into your route or change onto a beach
route. Running on sand can be very physically
demanding requiring more calories. Run with a weight jacket for extra
resistance.
Lose Weight by Running Tip #5:
Be Prepared
Buy appropriate running
shoes and gear.
The wrong pair of shoes can contribute to unnecessary injuries like shin
splints and runner's knees (also see the running
injuries section. Correct
running clothing can keep you comfortable when you run.
Lose Weight by Running Tip #6:
Start Gradually
There are many running programs available. Many of them start with
walking and slowly incorporate running. The goal is to ease you into
running, instead of intimidating you by demanding lots of running.
These programs help.
For example check out this
beginners running program.
The program allows you to get your mileage up gradually and has many
happy users.
Lose Weight by Running Tip #7:
Always Warm Up
Cold unused muscles
that suddenly put to work almost always resist the change. The result
can be painful injuries which will keep you sidelined for a while.
More and more studies suggest that stretches before running can be
counterproductive. But warming up could be as simple as running on the
spot for a few minutes
or starting off at a slow pace.
Lose Weight by Running Tip #8:
Set Goals
Pick an up coming road race and train towards being able to compete in
it. Make sure you register for the race. That could
be the drive you need to keep getting out there and running.
Running to lose weight can be an enjoyable way to shed
those extra pounds.
The first few weeks are the most difficult, during that time your body
is adjusting to the new exercises.
You may feel sore and run down but once you get
past the initial hump the experience will reward as
you start to lose weight by running!
Complement your running with bodyweight and weight lifting exercises for optimal results.
Also see Briody Fitness 'n' Health, a personal training website focused on healthy lifestyles which covers everything you need to know to shred those pounds.
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