Running and Weight Loss Tip: Keep Moving

It's no secret that active people are more successful at losing weight and maintaining their weight loss than non-active people. In fact, the USDA recommends that people trying to maintain weight loss get 60 to 90 minutes of daily physical activity. As a runner, you've already got one weight loss advantage: Running burns a lot of calories. But since running every single day could eventually lead to overuse injuries or just plain-old burnout, you definitely need to find other ways to keep moving on your non-running days. Here are some ways you can work activity into your everyday life.

Use errands as an excuse to burn calories. Try walking or riding a bike to do your errands. Even if it's just a 10-minute walk, those small increments of calories burning add up.

Don't count out chores. Activities such as raking leaves, shoveling snow, vacuuming, or cleaning your car are all big calorie-burners. Instead of spending time watching TV, look for some chores that you've been neglecting.

Skip the coffee break. Instead of having your second cup of joe, get a co-worker to join you for a walking break outside or in the hallways at work.

Play with your kids. Don't just watch your kids. Join them on the jungle gym or get on the floor with them and play. You'll burn more calories than you will just sitting there.

Take more steps. Always take the stairs, and try to avoid elevators and escalators. Park in the far end of the parking lot, so you have to walk farther.

Related links:

• Running for Weight Loss
• Portion Control Tips
• Healthy Snacks for Runners