Running has been shown to be effective for weight loss.

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Is Running Good for Weight Loss?

Although regular physical activity has been shown to improve health and lower weight, many people remain inactive.

A person running outdoors

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Often, cost and time prohibit people from engaging in physical activity.

Running is a good physical activity for weight loss because it is easily accessible.

Running is a vigorous-intensity physical activity that can assist in weight loss.

Josephine Hessert, DO

To lose weight, the time and intensity of weekly activity must increase.

This can be achieved through activity, diet, or both.

Do not go below 800 food calories per day without medical supervision.

Some people find that alternating walking with running can help increase running time.

Repeat this until you reach your activity goal for the day.

After a week, increase running time by five to 10 minutes.

Varying your workouts throughout the week can be a great way to advance your runs.

Another way to intensify activity level is to add muscle-strengthening exercises to your running routine.

Muscle strengthening can improve endurance and running abilities, increasing speed and allowing you to run for longer periods.

Is Running Better Than Walking for Weight Loss?

One activity isnot necessarily better than the other.

This may mean a combination of walking and running or only doing one or the other.

You might find you enjoy a brisk 30-minute walk each day, while running isn’t as appealing.

You won’t get benefits from exercise you avoid, so maximize the activities you like best.

No program can help with weight loss if youre injured.

People who have existing conditions should check with a healthcare provider before starting a running program.

A healthcare provider can help you determine the right activities for your age, health, and fitness level.

Once you determine this, you’re able to plan to reduce the calories consumed.

Summary

Running can be a great activity for weight loss and overall health.

Overall, people need to consume fewer calories than they burn to lose weight.

To get started running, its best to begin slowly and gradually increase time and intensity.

Safety and injury prevention are important factors to consider while running.

These include getting a proper warm-up, cross-training, increasing intensity incrementally, and being aware of your surroundings.

Balancing physical activity and food can also help with weight loss.

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