subject: How To Benefit By Running To Lose Weight [print this page] If you're thinking about running to lose weight, this is a very practical idea, as running can be one of the best ways to get into shape and shed excess pounds. If you go about it the right way, running can be a safe and enjoyable activity, as well as being great for your health. There are, however, certain factors you should keep in mind before you start running, and we'll be covering some of these in this article.
If you want to get the most out of your running program, you shouldn't run at the same pace during every session. You should mix things up and make it more interesting and challenging for your body. This is assuming you've been running for at least a few weeks and built up some endurance; when you first start, you should just do what's comfortable. Ideally, you should alternate among three types of runs, easy ones, those that focus on speed and those that focus on distance. This way you'll be building up both your speed and stamina, but it's hard to work on these two at the same time. The easy runs will give your body a break so you don't overdo it.
From beginners, all the way to experts in running, it is necessary to take breaks from time to time if your muscles need to relax. If you feel that you are about to completely exhaust yourself, instead of stopping, you can walk for several hundred feet or until you feel well enough to run once more. Some people actually believe that it is cheating if you slow down while running, though it is actually beneficial to walk until you are in better shape. If you are a marathon runner, or an Olympic sprinter, you might think twice about walking - otherwise it is no big deal. Walking and running, a little bit of both, is a great way to start your running regimen as you strive for your goal to lose weight. By walking, and running, you will gradually build endurance by not stopping in the midst of your run which could actually halt your progress in losing weight.
Maintaining hydration and your levels of energy is important if you're going to be running. Every now and then you should take sips from your water bottle, which you should bring when you go running. After going on a run you need to drink plenty of water. Sports drinks may be good however if they contain a lot of added sugar then you should avoid them. A healthy meal that consists of carbohydrates that are complex should be eaten. A few great examples of this that are whole grains are wheat germ, oat bran and buckwheat. A few types of sports bars can be useful in nourishment for your body without adding useless calories. Some people find that running takes some time to get used to. If intense exercise is something you've not done for quite some time then you must allow yourself a bit of time to get used to the new activity. The health benefits that you'll get if you're persistent are being generally more positive, having higher energy levels and losing weight.
