If you’re trying to lose weight and already dreading the exercise portion, because you hate running, take heart. The truth is that running is a pretty ineffective exercise for weight loss.
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There are a number of reasons why people often don’t lose weight when they’re running. Sometimes it’s because they underestimate how many calories they’re really burning. So when they’re famished after a run, they treat themselves to a post-run treat. Another common reason is that they don’t run long or hard enough. To lose at least a pound a week–the recommended weight loss–you need to run at least three, but preferably four days a week. If you don’t love running, then you’re going to have trouble with that, right?
Yet another common cause people don’t lose weight even if they’re running for exercise is that they get into a groove and do the same workout every time. They run the same track or run on the treadmill every time, for example. Your body gets used to exercise and needs to be challenged once exercise gets too easy, which should be about every month.
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So these are some of the reasons why people don’t lose weight when they’re running. So if you hate running, feel free to use these as excuses. Then start doing an exercise that will burn calories. HIIT is a great option, but it’s not the only option. Weight training is another excellent choice.
But ultimately, remember that the scale should not be your only guide. If you do enjoy running, but are becoming discouraged because you’re not losing the weight you should, don’t give up just yet. There are other ways to measure progress besides pounds. You should start using a measuring tape to track the actual size of your body. You might actually be getting more toned–you just don’t realize it. Clothes are another way to measure progress. If your clothes are fitting better or even becoming too loose, you are losing weight, no matter what the scale says.
