Running = Plateau?

[TheGreatChange]

Hey guys,


So, I plan to start running every morning, and I guess I'd like to know a few things.


1. If I run the same amount of time every day, will my body get used to it and stop burning calories?


2. If I'd like to get slim, should I run with distance or time in mind?


3. Is there a certain posture I should maintain while running (besides the obvious - not slumped over )


4. I've heard you should eat breakfast at least an hour after you wake up - should I run before or after that? Does it matter?


5. Is every day too much to start with?


Any tips or advice would be wonderful! Thanks much


-Sam


P.S.


A gallon of water a day won't mess with my sodium levels, will it?

 

[espressowhip]

1. If I run the same amount of time every day, will my body get used to it and stop burning calories?


Your body never stops burning calories, how many it burns is up to you and the key is; intensity. Your run will naturally get easier over time, and it's up to you to keep tabs on your heart rate. There are a variety of target heart rates dependent on weight/gender/age, and training target. Using a heart rate monitor is an easy way to keep tabs on your intensity.



2. If I'd like to get slim, should I run with distance or time in mind?


Both, and neither. You are looking to burn fat, cardio is the way to go. I would defer you to look into what your target heart rate for weight loss, and maintain a training schedule within the range for fat-burning. Interval training has proven to be the most effective in support of weight loss. That is where you run a time at a slower pace and a time at a quicker pace, then back to slower - 5/10/5, or 2/5/2.



3. Is there a certain posture I should maintain while running (besides the obvious - not slumped over )


It might be worth while to get a running coach to give you some feedback. Relaxed movements, more direction forward than up and down, squared shoulders and hips in alignment. I'm sure a running website can give you more eloquent description and/or video of what a good running posture should look like. Most people are fine when they run, but many get it seriously wrong, so it's good to look into it.


4. I've heard you should eat breakfast at least an hour after you wake up - should I run before or after that? Does it matter?


When you eat breakfast is really up to you and it's better not to run on a full stomach. Lots of people will argue about running first thing without eating, and lots more do it regardless. Consider running at other times of the day. What's more important is that you rehydrate and consume protein after your run.



5. Is every day too much to start with?


Yes.


And...water doesn't "mess" with anything.


Check out this running site designed for beginners with lofty aspirations: http://www.c25k.com

And Runner's World website has tons of information for beginners, answers to all your questions, and then some.


Good luck!