Although there is no shortage of lose-weight-quick products in the marketplace, the most effective way to lose weight is through a combination of physical activity and appropriate diet. In addition, individuals who embrace healthy lifestyle choices to lose weight, such as increased physical activity and proper diet, tend to be more successful at maintaining a healthy weight and level of fitness over the long term. Running is an excellent activity for burning off the extra pounds while strengthening your cardiovascular system.
Burning Calories
Running is a very strenuous activity that is beneficial for burning a lot of calories and promoting cardiovascular health. The more vigorous your physical activities, the more excess calories you will burn to help you lose weight faster. According to MayoClinic.com, an individual weighing 200 lbs. burns 1,229 calories for each hour of running, compared with 346 calories burned during an hour of brisk walking.
Exercise vs. Diet
Cutting calories is more effective than relying on exercise alone to burn excess calories, notes MayoClinic.com. To lose 1 lb. of fat, you must burn 3,500 calories more than you take in, so you can lose weight faster by reducing the overall number of excess calories your body needs to burn. Maintain a nutritious diet and avoid empty calories to promote weight loss and give your body the energy it needs to sustain your fitness goals.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
A nutritious diet is essential if you plan to get serious about running for weight loss. Your body needs nutrients to build muscle and keep your energy levels high, as well as to prevent disease. It is important to provide enough calories to ensure you are burning fat rather than muscle tissue. Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of whole-grain carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables and healthy sources of protein, such as fish, lean meats, beans and nuts, suggests HelpGuide.org.
Additional Considerations
Starting a vigorous exercise routine, such as running, can be dangerous if your body isn’t ready for it. Consult your physician if you are at risk for heart disease or high cholesterol to make sure running is a safe activity for you. If you are out of shape, try brisk walking or slow jogging to work your way up to running and prevent injury. In addition, ask a fitness trainer how to warm up and stretch properly if you are new to running.
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