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How to Increase the Calorie-Burning Effects of Running

In addition to higher intensity aerobic work, like intervals and tempo runs, coaches credit strength training with helping magnify after-burn. Runners are often most comfortable with body-weight exercises, like lunges, push-ups and core work because they can be done quickly and efficiently at home post-run. "I recommend including strength training with high intensity movements to get both the benefit of eliciting a higher EPOC and increased muscle mass," adds Koegel.

By implementing the right kind of body-weight exercises 2 to 3 times a week, runners will boost after-burn without adding too much bulk. This type of work hits two birds with one stone because it can also help runners avoid common running injuries that result from muscle weakness and overcompensation.

More: How to Find Your Weaknesses as a Runner and Avoid Injury

Why When You Eat Is so Important

Diet can contribute to increasing the after-burn effect. Consuming calories before the workout, like a banana or yogurt, can allow you to work harder. A snack of protein and carbs consumed within 30 minutes of finishing a workout also plays a role. More specifically, a ratio of protein to carbs of 1:3 to 1:4 is ideal. A peanut butter and jelly sandwich on whole-wheat bread or a protein shake with fruit are both great options.

More: Post-Workout Fuel You Need

"If you eat foods that help you work harder during exercise, you will elicit a better response in EPOC because it will take more energy to return to a resting state," explains Koegel. "Consuming the right ratio of protein to carbs post workout will help the body return amino acids to the muscles, and will also slightly increase the metabolism post workout."

More: How to Increase Metabolism During Marathon Training

Calorie-Burning Running Workouts

Consider the following running and strength workouts. Be sure to take at least one easy day of running between these workouts, and try to implement strength training 2 to 3 times each week on those easy days.

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About the Author

Mackenzie Lobby

Mackenzie Lobby is a Minneapolis-based freelance writer and photographer with a Master's in Kinesiology from the University of Minnesota. She has run 10 marathons and is a USATF certified coach. When she's not writing, she's out swimming, biking, and running the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes. Check out her website at mackenzielobby.com.
Mackenzie Lobby is a Minneapolis-based freelance writer and photographer with a Master's in Kinesiology from the University of Minnesota. She has run 10 marathons and is a USATF certified coach. When she's not writing, she's out swimming, biking, and running the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes. Check out her website at mackenzielobby.com.

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