So many people are interested in learning how to run and lose weight, but they should also realize that running can do much more than just help you lose extra pounds. In fact I probably could write a book on that subject.

Running is an exercise one can do alone, with friends, outdoors or indoors, virtually any time of day, and it tends to be something people either love or dread. Even people who hated the idea of running, now like it. This is because once you get started with running and understand the many benefits, it becomes something very enjoyable.

What is the best way to run and lose weight? Lets first start out with a few guidelines for running.

Running Fundamentals:

1) Always stretch before you go for a run. Focus mainly on your calf muscles and legs. That way, you will increase your flexibility and keep you from incurring muscle injuries or strains.

2. Begin every run at a reduced speed. This will allow your body to warm up and get use to the movements. After a few minutes you can start to speed up a bit (or slow down eve more depending on your fitness!).

3. Once you have completed your warm up, increase your speed to a jogging speed. Keeping in mind that this is the speed that you will be dropping back to after your run. You should feel comfortable at this speed, with smooth, steady and balanced strides.

4. After you jog at this pace, increase to an even quicker, yet still controllable pace. It is at this speed that you will maximize your ability to burn fat. If you are on a treadmill, you may want to increase the incline at this point, this will greatly increase your body's ability to burn fat.

5. Alternate your routine between a steady jogging and running. Thirty to Forty Five minutes will be plenty for beginners and some novices, while seasoned runners may want to increase the time to an hour or hour and a half.

Those are the basics for what is called High Intensity Interval Training. Using HIIT allows your body to burn fat at its very fastest.

So why should you run to lose weight?

The most obvious positive feature of running is that you will undoubtedly use a greater number of calories than you would if you simply walked or remained at rest. It has been proven to be one of the best cardiovascular exercises for burning calories.

Combine this style of running with a balanced diet, and I guarantee you that you will start to see and feel the pounds melt away!

Secondly, you are exercising your heart, hands, legs and your lungs. It means you will be able to take bigger and deeper breathes. By processing more oxygen, your body will become a more effective fat burner.

Thirdly, it will lower your blood pressure, increase your body's circulation and allow you to relax!

Now that you have read "How to Run and Lose Weight, all at the same time," are you ready to get out there and melt away those unwanted pounds?