Weight loss and running?

Running is a good overall calorie burner. It'll be right up there with most other moderate to high level intensity cardio workouts. If you run outside you'll get the most benefit, especially if you set distance and time goals and actively work towards them.

Side note, running on hiking trails and off road will give you even more benefit, forcing you to use more core muscles during the run (balance becomes an issue, thus forcing you to stabilize and use your core more). The only thing you must remember if you do this type of running is that it's hard on the ankles, so if you have any ankle issues, tape them up or wear a tight ankle sleeve to give added support.

While there is no "magic pill" of exercise, running incorporates many many muscles into your routine and will definitely help you to shape the lower half of your body.

running doesn't cause "bulky" muscles. It actually is much better for general, overall toning. It works your entire lower body from calf to glute, If you squeeze your abdominals while you run you'll get a killer ab workout too. I started running almost a year ago and I fell in love. I do 2.5 miles every morning now. You'll love it, hands down the best exercise there is, IMO. :flowerforyou:

At it's core, running is a fairly high-intensity cardio activity, even at slower speeds. There is a minimum intensity to running at any speed (compared to walking, which can be done at an intensity almost as low as sitting in a chair). That occurs when both feet leave the ground (same is true for an activity such as skipping rope).

Furthermore, research indicates that people who run work harder at lower rates of perceived exertion when compared to other forms of exercise. In other words, working at a higher aerobic level while running seems easier compared to exercises like stationary cycling or stairclimbing. The act of running also makes it easier to sustain that level for an extended period of time.

The people who see the best results from running are those who have switched from some other type of workout routine. Typically, they have been doing medium to low level exercise such as walking, stationary cycling or aerobic classes and so starting an activity that is probably 20-30% harder gives them a big calorie boost. Those effects will plateau somewhat as you become more experienced and your body acclimates itself to the new routine.

Because running a relatively higher-intensity activity, it can be difficult for some older or more deconditioned individuals. It is sometimes necessary to start with an interval type program, or even work up to running by doing other activities. The other caveat is that running is a much higher-impact activity and has some of the highest injury rates of any exercise. Good shoes are a must, and some individuals who are more overweight need to exercise caution. Sometimes it is better to start on a commercial treadmill with a cushioned running deck.

"Bulky' muscles are not an issue with running--in fact, just the opposite. Training for long distance events can actually interfere with muscle development. Longer runs will result in increase protein consumption for fuel, and runners tend to develop muscle imbalances between the quads (weak) and hamstrings.