Running

[fitnessfanaticfromMN]

I'm from MN and I put on a few pounds over the winter. We are in the process right now of building a house and so we have to "eat out" and in a small MN town there isn't much for an option. I've been eating cafe food (burgers, fries) and drinking more pop and beer than I should (stressful times require beer, and no running water). I would really like to start running. So, when you "start" should you aim to go for a mile or should you run for 3 minutes, walk for 2, run for 3 walk for 2??? And should you run for a time limit or for a mile limit??? Should you continue with Cathe's cardio workouts too or just focus on the weighted programs?? I don't feel I'm completely out of shape...I've tried to continue with exercising AT LEAST 4 days a week, and working on a new house -- carrying sheetrock around and all that misc. really has kept me quite busy. But my poor eating and drinking that damn Mt Dew has caused me to gain. Am I right to think running will be a sure fire/quick way to help me lose weight??? (especially if I carry most my weight in my hips and butt???)

 

[allwildgirl]

Well, no running won't be a surefire or quick way to help you lose weight. Cutting back on the beer and burgers and fries will help that more than running will.

If you're looking for a good beginner plan, check out Hal Higdon at http://www.halhigdon.com/. He has great programs for every level of runner.

 

[Imafitnessfreak]

I have to agree with Shelley 100%. If you get healthier food, no pop and save the beer for special occassions, that is your faster route to a better, healthier body! Pop is really bad for a diet. I know you have time issues and have to do carry out but you can order something better. A salad with grilled chicken and dressing on the side. Fruit as a dessert...none on the menu? Keep it in your house, keep it clean and ready. That doesn't take that long. Also...what about Subway?? Not perfect but way better than pop, burgers, fries and beer.

 

[Bunbun]

Also, probably an obvious suggestion, but diet soda or club soda are two other options instead of sugary soda.

 

[SRP]

And you can go to Wal-Mart, buy a big cooler, and keep healthy sandwich materials on ice, along with fruit and some better breakfast options.