Will Running Help Me Lose Weight? (Make Sure You Like Running!)

First and foremost, when people tell me they’re going to start a running routine, I always ask: “Great! Do you enjoy running?”


If the answer is “No, not really” then I’d say, “Interesting. Then….why running?”

Most people think running = weight loss. If you’re brand new to health and fitness, and you’re trying to lose weight, you’re most likely overwhelmed at what you should start with and how you should train.


So let’s answer the question “will running help me lose weight?”


Maybe!


Running will help you lose weight if you do two things:


  1. You run consistently.
  2. You fix your diet.


Running won’t help you lose weight if you do two things:


  1. You run consistently.
  2. You don’t fix your diet.


As sexy as it is to think that just going for a run will help you lose weight, the data doesn’t back it up.


I believe that to be especially true when exercise is only steady-speed cardio.

In fact, many people gain weight after starting an exercise routine and get completely demoralized.


What gives?


 You can’t outrun your fork, and nutrition is 90% of the battle.


If you go for a mile run and then stuff your face with extra calories “because you earned it,” you’re going to gain weight.

It’s not because you have a slow metabolism, I promise. It’s because you’re consuming too many calories.


This is a common mistake: not fixing your nutrition if you’re running for weight loss!

While exercise is important for health, it doesn’t have to be running. It can come from activities you DO enjoy:


  • Hiking
  • Strength training
  • Martial arts
  • Ultimate Frisbee



Now, if you answer the question “do you even like running?” with something like:


  • “Yes! I love running.”
  • “I like interval training and sprints.”
  • “I don’t love it, but I need to complete it for a fitness test.”
  • “I’m running a 5k for charity/work and want to do well.”
  • “Not yet, but I think I could…”
  • “I like how I feel AFTER a run.”    


Let’s take a look at the first few important steps (get it!) when it comes to running.


First, if you are trying to lose weight and wondering if running will help, I want you to know you’re on the right track. 


The important thing is that you’re beginning to ask questions and looking for answers.