Running is one of the most tried and true techniques used to lose weight, but is also an excellent way to accentuate your existing muscle tone. Running helps you shed those last few pounds that really let your physique shine through, so let’s review a few tips on effective running.
#1 Rotate your Routine
It is easy to get burned out when you try to take up running. If you ate the same thing every day, pretty soon meals wouldn’t be that enticing. In order to maintain a strong running routine, you need to switch it up often. One day you should run up a mountain trail (or jog slowly, depending on your ability), when another day you could do sprints for 30 minutes. Keeping up a running habit is easier when you have something to look forward to, so don’t be afraid to deviate from your standard run.
#2 Stress your body out, then take a rest
It’s easy to skip a day of running if your body is completely sore and spent after yesterday’s 15 mile run. That’s why it’s important to remember this simple rule. It’s ok to take a break. This doesn’t mean that you stop all physical activity for a week, but if you want to take a day off, go ahead. Just remember to get back on track the next day. A good schedule might look something like this:
Monday: 3 mile run
Tuesday: 1 hour of sprints
Wednesday: 2 mile jog/walk
Thursday: 5 mile run-full speed
Friday: Day off
Saturday: 45 minutes around a track
This type of schedule works well because you get the rest you need when you need it, but it is consistent enough to get the results you want. If you combine it with more variety (talked about in tip #1) then it will be much easier to maintain a solid running schedule.
#3 Just Keep Going
No one said that running would be easy. Sometimes getting out the door seems like the last thing you want to do. But just like any sport, you will only see improvement if you keep with it and practice. If you want a toned chest and abs, you’ve got to keep with a running schedule. I once saw a fridge magnet that said: “Seven days without exercise makes one weak.” You aren’t going to get anywhere near your fitness goals if you aren’t consistent.
