SPRINTING AND LONG-DISTANCE RUNNING FOR WEIGHT LOSS By Hans Overturf

Introduction Hans Overturf currently works as an investor with OFS in

Tiburon, California. Away from work, Hans Overturf enjoys staying in shape through running.

Running provides individuals with a number of health benefits, ranging from improved stamina to strengthened muscle systems throughout the legs. Running can even play an important role in a person’s weight loss regimen. One question individuals must consider, however, is whether they want to try to lose weight through sprinting or distance running. Long distance running may seem the obvious choice to some, as the longer workout provides runners with more opportunities to burn fat.

Running for Weight Loss Research has shown that short intervals of running can

be equally effective when it comes to cardiovascular health and both the breaking down and oxidation of excess fat. A University of Lethbridge study indicated that a series of two-minute sprints can match the oxygen consumption of a continuous 30-minute jog. Furthermore, the intensity of a sprint can yield a higher metabolic rate, enhancing runners’ digestion and thereby their weight loss efforts. More importantly, an American Journal of Physiology study published in 2008 indicated that the most effective method of fat oxidation is interval training, which entails a period of intense training that is followed by a stage of low-intensity training.