So if I'm understanding your recent experiences, Jean, you came to the realization that running long distances is NOT the way to lose weight, is that correct?

(that's one of those things I try to explain to people every day, but sometimes it takes the process of self-discovery to make the facts become "real".)

As I mentioned in a previous message, low intensity/high duration activities (ex: running marathons) are clearly not the best way to lose weight.

My offer to chat for 10-15 mins is still on the table.  just get  in touch w/me and we'll set up a time to discuss your current training/nutrition plan and make a few adjustments to get you on your way to "lean & mean" :)

-JS-

Weight lifters (I'm assuming you're referring to bodybuilders specifically?) lose weight by keeping their metabolism in overdrive:  relatively high levels of muscle mass, strict attention to diet (note: this doesn't mean starvation).  Some still use long, slow distance (LSD) cardio - I suspect this is mainly because they have no energy during a calorie restrictive diet.  But the ones who figured out how to balance training, nutrition and recovery often use high intensity intervals. 

Distance runners metabolisms get SLOWED by the way they condition their bodies to use the least amount of energy needed over the duration of a run.  This carries over into "real life", too. 

This kind of efficiency is good if your goal is to be a competitive runner.  Not so good if your goal is to expend energy (body fat) as quickly as possible.

You CAN do well at both, but you need to adopt a balanced approach.

Don't expect to get 40mpg out of a '79 Buick. Likewise, don't expect a 100mpg moped to perform like a Ferrari.

(hopefully that makes sense outside of my head!) 

Jean,

LOTS of great questions.  send me a msg through my blog site (http://morningcupofjoe.com/contact/) and we can set up a time to chat for 10-15 mins.  sound good?

 -JS-