There are so many exercise methods available for weight loss in the UAE but did you know that something as simple as running can be one of the best ways to lose weight and get in shape.

We asked a UAE based running coach if running can help you lose weight in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Can running help you lose weight?

Question: Running is a great way to get and stay in shape but is running also good for weight loss in general?

Running burns approximately 500kal per hour for your average female and around 700kcal for your average man.

So in terms of weight loss, running can be a great way to help keep the weight off as part of a calorie controlled diet.

Running helps improve cardiovascular fitness and leaves you less at risk of developing health issues and diseases later in life.

Question: Do you think running for fitness in the UAE is the best way to lose calories which can ultimately help with weight loss?

Running can be a great way to lose fat in addition to diet and weight training.

If you want to achieve a lean and toned look, then you should add some weight training as part of your program.

There are plenty of running groups within the UAE and they operate mostly in the winter months.

Everyone is different with a different metabolism but in general how many calories can someone expect to burn during a 30 or 60 minute running session (jog)? You can expect to burn around 250-300 caloires in a 30 minute session and up to 600 in one full hour.

Can running help with obesity?

Question: Although running might seem easy for someone who is generally a little over weight can running also be used as a fitness method for people who are considered obese and if so are there any caveats?

As long as there are no medical reasons, then running can be a great choice for everyone. In terms of the obese client, sometimes excessive running can be damaging to the joints and bones due to the excess weight.

However power walking and hill walking can be a great alternative.

Which is better – running outdoors or on a treadmill?

Question: As a personal trainer in Dubai who has trained for marathons do you think running in the great outdoors is a better option than using a gym treadmill?

Running outdoors is always a great option, as you get to access to fresh air and sun (vitamin D).

However its important to remember to hydrate and try running at cooler times of the day.

In the summer in the UAE its always recommend to train indoors due to risk of dehydration.

Are there any age restrictions on who should run for fitness?

Question: Do you think running as a fitness method and a way to lose weight (or fat) in Dubai is suitable for all ages?

Yes, running is a great way to lose weight for all ages. There are children and elderly out there training for marathons and triathlons all the time!

It’s a great way to keep up your cardiovascular fitness which leaves you less at risk for certain diseases and health issues.