It also comes with a slew ofphysical and mental health benefits.
Overall, we get the appeal.
And, frankly, we live in a society obsessed with body size and weight.
Obradovic / Getty Images
So its no wonder why weight would factor into many peoples questions about creating abalanced workout routine.
But its worth emphasizing here that how exercise affects weight is complicated, to say the least.
First, know that weight changes are not necessarily a marker of a successful workout routine.
Whats less complicated are the myriad health benefits associated with running, fromimproved mood and self-esteemto robustcardiovascular benefits.
That doesnt mean that its a waste of timefar from it.
A lot of this ties into the overarching fact that weight is a tricky physiologic realm.
Ultimately, long-term intentional weight loss is biologically hard to maintain.
(It can be emotionally difficult to maintain as well.
Theres no downside to getting out the door and exercising on a regular basis, she tells SELF.
Health benefits aside, running can be just plain fun.
Now, lets dig into some more science.
Heres why some people may lose weight from running.
Its also possible to lose weight from the combination of running and other simultaneous changes.
Heres why some people may gain or maintain weight from running.
Similar to the above, a lot of this comes down to calorie intake vs. expenditure.
Its certainly not uncommon to start a running plan and realize that youre suddenly way more famished than usual.
Bodies need fuel, especially for increased exercise!
For some people, those changes could lead to a net gain in weight.
Eventually, weight changes from running will likely plateau.
Typically what will happen is as you exercise you get better at it, Dr. Pojednic says.
Lets say you went out and you ran a mile and you hadnt run in a very long time.
Thats going to be very taxing for your body because its not conditioned to do that.
Whereas before you may have been exhausted after one mile, now the same distance likely feels easier.
Ultimately, remember that your weight might change in some way if you decide to start running.
It also might not.
And both are more than okay.