Running for Weight Loss

Is running good for weight loss? Does running help you lose weight faster? We all know how daunting the weight loss process can be! Running for weight loss is a simple but effective technique that can also help maintain your overall health and well-being. Whether it is through maximising the number of calories you burn during your workout, helping keep your appetite in check or reducing that stubborn belly fat, a running plan for weight loss can have significant benefits!

Why is Running Good for Weight Loss?

Now it is no surprise that running is not everybody’s cup of tea. And so, to maintain and thereby gain the health benefits of running every day, we must first ask the question, how does running help us lose weight?

1. Helps  burns more calories 

To lose weight, you need to burn more calories than you consume. Running is a high-intensity exercise and can help you maximise the number of calories you burn per hour. If you want to make the most of your workout-time, running for weight loss should be at the top of your list!

2. You lose weight even when you’re not exercising

One of the many benefits of running every day is an elevated metabolism which allows you to burn more calories even when you’re resting! Running for weight loss is hence a great way to make your body work for you!

3. Helps moderate your appetite 

Studies show that running doesn’t just burn calories effectively but also helps suppress your appetite after exercise! In this way, running for weight loss can help sustain the advantages of your workout. Additionally, Dr. Vaidya’s also offers safe and effective Ayurvedic weight loss medicines that can help you control unhealthy cravings. 

4. Starting your day with a run helps you lose weight quicker

Most people who start their day with a run do so on an empty stomach, this is also called Fasted running.  One of the many benefits of running in the morning is quicker weight loss! In order to maintain energy while running on an empty stomach, your body relies on using body fat, enhancing your weight loss process. Keep in mind that without prior food intake, it is crucial to ensure proper hydration before, during and after your run so that your body can recover properly and maximise the health benefits of running!

5. Running everyday helps you keep the weight off for good

One of the main benefits of running everyday is developing a sustainable and long-term weight loss solution. There are many benefits of running in the morning, but even if morning runs don’t fit your schedule, try and maintain a dedicated time to running that you can incorporate into your day. 

6. Maintains your overall health

Besides weight loss, running also helps enhance your respiratory health, reduces the risk of osteoporosis, elevates mood, promotes better sleep quality and even boosts cognitive functions such as memory and creativity.
One of the running benefits for women  is the elevation of mood that occurs due to the release of endorphins, a natural pain relieving hormone that can help with your menstrual cramps. But that’s not all! Other running benefits for women include alleviating symptoms of hormonal imbalances such as irregular periods or PMS.

Running Vs. Jogging, Which One’s a Better Fit for Me?

Like running, jogging benefits also go a long way in weight loss. Both running and jogging are aerobic exercises, meaning it utilises oxygen to meet its energy requirements. The difference between the two lies in its intensity, and so even though running for weight loss is faster, it requires a greater level of fitness as it exerts more effort from your body. 

If you are new to the fitness journey, jogging benefits you by reducing the strain on your body while still giving you similar results! Aside from jogging, you can always add to your progress by incorporating simple weight loss exercises that you can do at home. 

Where Do I Start? Goal Setting and Tips for Running for Weight Loss

Here are a few tips to keep in mind before you get started 

Seek advice from a healthcare professional

If you are starting to exercise for the first time or after taking a significant break, it may be advisable to talk to your doctor before you begin a running plan for weight loss, this way you can ensure the plan is tailored to your goals and needs

Set goals for yourself

Start with achievable goals, such as running for a specific distance or duration and work your way up!

Ensure that you stay hydrated

Make sure you drink water before, during and after your run. 

Warm-up and cool down

Performing dynamic stretches to warm up before your run and static stretches to cool down after can help improve your flexibility and keep you safe from injury!

Take rest days

If you are following an intensive running plan for weight loss, ensure your body gets enough time to recover. Exerting yourself without taking adequate rest can lead to injury!

There is such a thing as too much running

Running for weight loss is only effective if your muscles are capable of burning fat. Too much cardio can adversely impact your metabolism and even weaken your immune system. To truly gain the health benefits of running it is vital that you pace yourself!

Mix up your running routes

Running for weight loss can become monotonous. Exploring different paths can keep your runs exciting and challenge your body with different terrains and elevations. 

Listen to your body

Pay attention to any discomfort or pain your body feels during your run. If something feels off, take a break or seek advice from a healthcare professional. 

Running for weight loss is clearly effective but is only sustainable if you also prioritise your overall health! This means that you should not sacrifice your recovery time or nutritional intake to obtain quicker results. We know weight loss can be an exhausting process, so here at Dr. Vaidya’s we provide safe and effective Ayurvedic weight loss products that can help you along the way.