Is Running the Fastest Way to Lose Weight?
Running is the best exercise method for losing weight. It combines weight bearing, bone- and muscle-building movement with aerobic demands and is accessible to almost anyone, anywhere, as a fitness option.
-
Workload
-
The calorie burn with running is 30 percent greater than with walking. The weight-bearing aspect and the resistance of inclined surfaces make it more effective than swimming.
Timing
-
Run for more than 30 minutes in a session, at least three times a week to see weight loss benefits. If you have been sedentary, starting to exercise will make a difference, but once you reach a moderate level of fitness, greater duration or intensity is required to see weight drop.
-
Slow burn
-
All runs burn calories, but the components the body draws upon for energy are different in a long, slow run. This type of run burns more stored fat.
Flexibility
-
In running, it is easy to change your routine, to add in small bursts of greater intensity to burn more calories. Hills, stairs, extra miles, and intervals can all be added or subtracted to tailor your workout.
Metabolism
-
Running builds muscle and fires the metabolism. This in turn causes greater calorie use, even while the body is at rest.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Photo by greenfinger @ morgueFile