With the exception of cross-country skiing, few exercises are equal to running when it comes to weight loss. Mindy Solkin, owner and head coach of The Running Center in New York, says one reason running is more efficient than other exercises is because "it burns the most calories in any given amount of time."

Naturally, the more time you spend running, the more calories you'll burn. But don't think that means you have to break any speed records. If you are prone to injury or if you enjoy a longer, slower run, you can still lose weight. Alternatively, you can run faster if you prefer.

If you're really serious about losing weight quickly and keeping it off for good, then you shouldn't rely on running alone. Combine your running workout with a strength-training regimen and watch your eating habits. "If you run and you don't watch your fat intake, you are not going to lose weight as quickly or efficiently," Solkin says. "It's got to be a balance of energy in, energy out. And you should put in a little less energy than you are expending if you want to lose weight."

You need to stick to your nutrition and exercise routines, and for runners, there's no excuse not to do the latter. Wherever you are in the world, you can run, so you don't have to break your exercise routine if you're away from your gym. "Have shoes, will travel," says Solkin. "You don't need to bring your tennis racquet and worry about finding a partner. You can just lace up, make sure it's safe, and run out the door."

If you're interested in taking up running, and you have any questions about your health or level of fitness, you should consult a doctor. Also, be sure to have a good pair of running shoes, and always run in a safe place.

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written by nordeen, October 12, 2006

i love to run is it true that you will lose your butt in running.