Running and weightloss

[Makemedoit]

I used to run many years ago and am.contemplating starting the couch to 5k programme. I now weigh quite a bit more than when I used to run. Does running result in weightloss? Which bits of me will it tone up?

I've run consistently for years (apart from pregnancies) I do 3/4 runs a week and today did 11 miles. I'm just under 12 stone so technically overweight - I've never lost weight on exercise alone, only when I incorporate a healthier diet. If you've done it before you'll know running is fantastic for overall fitness and mental health so definitely give it a go! Good luck

Diet is definitely the key factor in weight management. Exercise is good of course as it burns calories, builds muscle and improves breathing and circulation. I much prefer to cycle than jog as you get the exercise without the repetitive impact.

You'll get leaner and stronger but not necessarily lighter.

I gained a stone in my first year running but my clothes still fit.

This is what I understand from the research. Change your diet for weight loss. Lift heavy weights to “tone up”, improve your metabolism and protect your bone. Cardio for healthy heart and lungs.

All three for good emotional health.

Yes running has definitely helped my weight loss BUT:

NB: ONLY in conjunction with a strict calorie controlled diet!

What running did do was help me clean up my diet. Once I got the running bug, it became important to eat well to support my training and make me a better runner which, it turns out, was a far better motivator than wanting to look good.

weightloss is 80% diet
running will certainly help, but you will still need to look at what you eat.