A recent study found that every one hour that you spend running could add up to an extra seven hours of life-expectancy. This means that someone who runs just a few days a week could end up living an extra three to four years, simply thanks to their exercise routine.

There are all sorts of reasons that people cite as to why they want to lose weight, but at the end of the day most people are after longer life expectancy. Risk of heart attack and stroke are directly associated with reduced life expectancy, as are chronic illnesses like type-2 diabetes and hypertension. Losing weight helps to reduce your risk of experiencing these major health concerns, but to really experience the benefits of a healthy lifestyle you need to continue engaging in healthy habits even after you reach your weight loss goal.

Running: How to Get Started

Running isn’t exactly the easiest exercise to do, and a lot of people look at running as something they are simply not capable of. Running is intense on the knees, it is hard on the lungs, and it is challenging to get started with. Too many people go about getting started with running the wrong way, attempting to take off and to start running from day one without working into it.

The best way to get started with running is to take is slow. Start your expectations out real low and work your way up to real running by using an introductory routine by following these three steps:

• Start by setting a walking routine. Map your distance and time yourself so that you know where you are going and how intense of a workout you are embarking on at your current comfort level.
• Mix in some light jogging a little at a time. Don’t attempt to run your entire routine from the start. Instead, start running for 30 seconds and then walk for a minute, on and off.
• Over time, gradually increase your running time until you are able to run comfortably for a designated distance.

Getting started in a gradual way like this can help you develop a running habit, slowly allowing your body to build up the ability and stamina for more long distance running. As you get started, make sure that you are preparing yourself for success by wearing proper workout clothes and sneakers, and that you are staying hydrated by keeping a water bottle with you as you run. It might help to start your running routine out at a gym where you can stay on a treadmill and have easy access to support if needed.

Before you attempt to start a running workout, check with your weight loss surgeon to make sure that you are ready for that kind of physical activity.