Running to Burn Fat

Most people who run to burn fat can vouch the effectiveness of running, in weight loss. It is one of the simplest fat burning exercise and yet the most effective one. However, it is imperative that you know the correct technique of running, if you wish to gain maximum results in minimal time.

However, if you are overweight, then a 12 minute interval training will suit you the best. It includes, alternate sessions of walking and running for 12 minutes.

In interval training you run very fast for a few minutes, then change pace and run very slowly for the next couple of minutes. This intensive workout trains your body at various levels. This type of running gives you the same result, as a 4 minute intense workout.

If you are already engaged in any kind of sport and have the required stamina, then you can straightway start with a 4 minute intense training program. Else, you can go for 12 minute interval training.

Brisk walk for about a minute, then increase your speed and jog for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Slow down and again walk for a minute. Keep repeating the procedure for 12 minutes. Gradually, you can increase the duration of both the intense periods and the resting periods. Do this exercise for about 2-3 times a week.

Many people are of the opinion that walking exercise on the treadmill, at a moderate pace, burns more calories than running. However, one must understand that when you walk on the treadmill, the calories that you burn come only from the fat, whereas when you run, the amount of calories you burn come from the entire body mass.

Obviously, it means that although you burn less calories from the fat, you still burn more calories when it comes to the total number of calories burnt. Thus, running helps you to burn excess calories and eventually results in fat loss.

Yes and no. Running is the best way to burn fat if you have only a few pounds in excess, or already have a toned body which you wish to maintain. However, if you are overweight or downright obese, then running can do more harm than good.

You are at the risk of damaging your joints by subjecting them to a lot of stress. Overweight people can benefit more from combination exercises, than running. Exercises such as brisk walking, skipping, stationary bicycle etc., performed every few days a week, alternately, can be more efficient in burning fat than running.

If you are running to burn fat, there are number of ways in which your body will be benefited. Not only running boosts your metabolism, it also regulates the fat-muscle ratio and helps to tone your body.

However, while running, always make sure to run on a soft surface. Hard surfaces like concrete can give you a lot of foot problems. Similarly, buy a pair of good quality running shoes to give your feet maximum comfort.