Why you should consider stopping your running goals, and focus on something else for weight loss instead.
Social Media is full of claims about how running could be hindering your weight loss goals. Is this true, and why you should consider stopping running altogether.
Should You Stop Running to Lose Weight? It is a question many female runners are asking after so much information has hit the internet with reasons to stop running.
Running is often touted as one of the most effective ways to lose weight, but this is not entirely true.
Running may not be the best choice for weight loss for some metabolisms. In fact, it may even be hindering weight loss progress.
Running can increase appetite, cortisol levels, and joint pain, all of which can hinder weight loss efforts.
Alternative exercises like swimming, cycling, and strength training can be more effective for weight loss, while also being easier on the body.
Ultimately, achieving weight loss requires a balance between exercise and diet, and it’s important to find an exercise routine that works for you and your body.
Programs like Wildfit support a three month long nutritional program with no exercise except walking and the vast majority of participants lose a significant amount of weight.
Many fitness and nutrition experts are suggesting alternative forms of exercise to running to lose weight.
Here are the facts:
Appetite:
Running can increase appetite, leading to overeating and weight gain.
Studies have shown people who engage in high-intensity exercise like running tend to consume more calories after the event than they burn when actually running, which can completely sabotage weight loss efforts.
Running is a form of stress on the body, which can lead to an increase in cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone that is associated with belly fat and weight gain, especially for women with PCOS or other metabolic conditions.
Cortisol:
High levels of cortisol can also contribute to a decreased metabolic rate, making it harder to lose weight.
Running is a high-impact exercise that can be hard on the joints, especially for anyone overweight or obese. And for anyone who runs for many years, particularly on hard surfaces.
The constant pounding can lead to joint pain and injury long term, which can then lead to no exercise at all, increasing weight for the long term.
Other forms of fitness for weight loss:
There are many alternative exercises that can be more effective for weight loss than running. Low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, and walking can be easier on the joints while still providing a good cardiovascular workout.
Strength training exercises like weightlifting are highly reccommended for women, as they address hormonal issues, which can be the key to weight loss for many women.
They can also help build muscle and boost metabolism, leading to more effective weight loss.
Diet is the most important:
Weight loss ultimately comes down to a balance between exercise and diet. While exercise is important, diet is the most significant factor in weight loss.
Focusing on a healthy, balanced diet and incorporating a variety of exercises can lead to more effective and sustainable weight loss.
While running is a popular exercise for weight loss, it may not be the best choice for every body type and person.
