Running for Weight Loss – 7 Effective Strategies to Lose Weight by Running

Do  you get alarmed every time you put on a few pounds? Then you need to consider running for weight loss.  Running is an effective way to shed off those extra pounds, but like most things in life, nothing is instant, except for ready-to-drink coffee mixes and no-cook meals.  Losing the pounds you gained over a weekend or holiday of wining and dining is quite a tough chore, but it doesn’t have to be that way.  Whether trying to lose an ample amount of weight or just trimming off the excess pounds, running can be the solution to your problem.   

Check out the tips below about running and weight loss.

• Set a goal and plan your exercise regimen.  Set an ideal weight and schedule your running activities.  When running for weight loss it is important to exert extra effort to stick to your plan.  Also, do not forget to track your progress from time to time.
• Eat healthy foods. Plan your meals in advance in order to avoid those calorie-loaded meals. Don’t succumb to your favorite burger or dessert any time soon, but don’t deprive yourself of eating delectable food.  The key is in choosing the right kinds of food – if you want to eat a burger, opt for a small-sized burger stuffed with lean meat in a whole wheat bun; and if you are craving for something sweet, enjoy a cup of frozen yogurt or fresh-fruit smoothie.  
• Be equipped. Invest in good running equipment, such as a comfortable pair of running shoes, and a heart rate monitor, to help you avoid knee injuries and other health hazards. You can also throw in a handy mp3 player to keep you going throughout your routine.  
• Be patient. When running for weight loss you probably won’t see results in one week, but do not fret.  Your body needs some time to adjust to your new routine. Do not quit and continue to challenge yourself.
• Do not focus on your weight. You may initially gain weight because you also start to build muscle, but you will eventually get the desired results if you religiously commit to your regimen.
• Adjust to your routine. Running for weight loss is very tough when you start out. You probably won’t get the hang of it on your first try, but keep trying.  Running can be a lot more fun compared to other exercise regimens, and there are a lot of ways you can enjoy it.
• Enjoy running. Don’t look at it as a chore; instead, look at it as a hobby with great benefits – the more you enjoy it, the more rewarding it becomes.  There’s nothing more comforting than the thought of looking forward to something that you enjoy doing and reaping the rewards off of your hard work.  Think of a way to put more fun in your running experience – listen to an upbeat music while running, pick an enticing trail with a nice view every once in a while, or run with your buddies. Remember, running becomes boring only if you allow it. 

Yes, running for weight loss can be fun and beneficial at the same time. Just to make clear, running for weight loss does not give you immediate results – you need to burn 3,500 calories in order to lose a pound, to be exact. Like any other fitness regimen, you need to stick to your plan and be patient. The key to reaching your ideal weight is all in your hands.