runners

I am trying to become a runner because I have read that it is the fastest and most effective way to lose weight.  I can't even run a half mile yet and was wondering if i keep doing the 1/2 mile, will I see any results????

Keep trying for the half mile and then increase it gradually. You'll be doing 3 miles before you know it! I got my body back after my second pregnancy really stretched it out, but I really didn't get it all the way back until I started running. I love it. You get a real feeling of accomplishment, too.

yes, keep running!!! If you run a little faster at the very end of your run, it will build up endurance. Just push youself, its totally worth it. I started running just one mile a couple times a week, and now i've gotten up to 8.5 miles! Its so nice and you really do feel great afterwards. Plus, runners have great legs!

Yes, that's how a lot of people start! I also recommend using a run/walk program. Run for ___ minutes and then walk for 1 ... the key is to take your walk break before you are totally exhaused so that you can repeat.

Also, watch your diet and be sure you're not increasing your calories to compensate!

Happy trails!

You don't actually have to exercise (run) to lose weight but I can tell you that it definitely aids in the weight lost process and makes it a bit faster and it also makes you much healthier casue you can lose weight and still be unhealthy.

As for the longer distance running I would stick to it and keep trying to increase my running distance by just a tiny bit every week. When I first started working out by running I couldn't run 100 meters. All my fat would be bouncing up and down making it extremely hard to run. But I stuck with it and 2 1/2 months  and 35 pounds lighter I can now run 2 miles at 10 mph without stopping.

Also remember if you can't run, walk. Cause no matter if you run 5 miles or walk the same 5 miles you will burn the exact same amount of calories.

I highly reccommend the Couch-to-5K plan. The one I used is at www.coolrunning.com. Here's the link:

http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.s html

Keep at it!!!  I started out in May only being able to run a little over a mile and now my longest is 6 miles and I'm training for a half marathon in October and running 18 miles per week!  What helped me was picking a 5K race to enter at first and training just for that.

As far as weight loss I have dropped around 9 pounds since then but I am finding myself hungrier the more miles I run.  :/

I agree with what everyone else is saying: Keep going! Maybe after you run that half mile, walk a half mile with a little jogging here and there. I am up to 7 miles in a row, but I still walk for a minute about 4 times just to catch my breath and regain strength.

Running really helps to lose weight and to strengthen muscles!

I would also recommend a run/walk strategy.  Run for a certain distance, walk for a certain distance and then gradually increase the running while decreasing the walking. 

Start out by going for time rather than distance so go for 30 to 45 minutes rather than for half a mile .  Most of the beginning running programs highlight this.  Also, push yourself a little.  Fat burn happens when you get your heart rate up for an extended period of time, so don't stroll.  As your build enudurance and stick with it you will see results.  When I dedicated myself to a lifestyle change that included running, I could not go 100 yards without stopping to walk.  Now  I log between 16 to 20 miles per week (mostly running with some walking).  Also I agree with kelly and skaadi.  Use the couch to 5k program and enter a race that matches up with the training plan, then sign up for the race and pay for it, and tell your friends and family you are going to do it.  They will support you and broadcasting your goals will help to keep you accountable. 

As others have said, the Couch to 5K program is a great way to get started - www.c25k.com. You can get some podcasts that will tell you when to start/stop each run/walk segment.

I also recommend looking at Jeff Galloway's www.jeffgalloway.com, programs. He is the stongest proponent of run/walk I have seen. I'm currently following his approach to both heal over training injuries and increase distance and speed. Sound advice.

good luck! running is a great way to burn calories.

I am at the end of my 2nd week of couch to 5 k. Dont know how I will move to week 3 as yet, but will give it a go!

I would recommend trying it. I have also used the pod casts. I do find it hard going, but feel fab after it. Its defo work a look at.

Great job on deciding to change your life!!! I was a sedentary person my whole life. I did the couch to 5K program in October. And then again in April. It is great! I now run regularly about 2-3 times per week 3 miles. I have been pleasently surprised about how it has changed my body (and my energy). Even my upperbody is getting toned (slowly). You just have to commit to actually putting in the time. That's the hardest part. Your body will thank you in the long run! (at first it might grumble) Good luck and happy running!!!

thanks everyone in this thread for sharing..i myself am doing couch to 5k and I can't wait until I can run a few miles without feeling like I have to stop :)