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I’m a Running Coach And This is How I Would Start My Running From Scratch

His three-step approach will have you pounding pavement in no time.

Leah Groth
By Leah GrothSep 22, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Couple staying hydrated after workout
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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothSep 22, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Fitness & Workouts

Dr. Casey Guthmiller, PT, DPT (@r4ucoaching) is a running coach and social media influencer who shares viral videos about how to maximize your workouts via running. In a recent video, he reveals the best way to get started with running if you are a beginner. “If I could start my running career over from scratch, here's exactly what I would do,” he says at the start of the clip.

Start By Walking

Man tying jogging shoesShutterstock

“First, I'd walk. I'd just walk,” he says about how to get started in running. “As a society who spends a lot of time sitting at desks, expecting to go straight from this to running can often be too much too soon, and lead to injury, walking is an underrated precursor to running.”

RELATED:7 Best Snacks For Protein and Fiber, According to Dietitian

What Are the Health Benefits of Walking?

the man walking the dog early in the morning by the riverShutterstock

Why should you walk? Brisk walking can help you maintain a healthy weight and lose body fat, prevent or manage various conditions, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, cancer, and type 2 diabetes, says the Mayo Clinic . It can also help improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen your bones and muscles, improve muscle endurance, increase energy levels, improve your mood, cognition, memory and sleep, improve your balance and coordination, strengthen immune system, and reduce stress and tension.

Then, Add Strength Training

Gym and dumbbell weight training equipment on sport ,Healthy life and gym exercise equipments and sports concept ,copy spaceShutterstock

Another way to prepare your body for running? Hit the gym. “Second, I would strength train just three to four exercises. Twice a week is enough. Get strong to run. Don't run to get strong,” he explains.

RELATED:Studies Show These are Proven Ways to Lose Visceral Fat

What Are the Benefits of Strength Training?

Man exercising with barbell. Male bodybuilder doing weight lifting workout at gym.Shutterstock

According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

  • Develop strong bones
  • Manage your weight
  • Enhance your quality of life
  • Manage chronic conditions
  • Sharpen your thinking skills

Go On Run Walks

Silhouettes of a man running with a puppy on a leash on a sunset backgroundShutterstock

“Third, I'd add some running bouts to my walks, walking for a certain period of time, running for a certain period of time,” he says. “I'd gradually build this up until I could run for 15 minutes straight, 30 minutes straight, and 60 minutes straight. 80 to 90% of this running would be slow and easy.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to start running, prep your body by walking and doing strength training.

@r4ucoaching

If I could start my running career over from scratch, these are 3 of the main steps I would take. Running & strength programs incorporating these 3 steps are just part of what’s included in the app for beginner runners, early-released this Friday (11/10). Your strong and healthy running foundation awaits! I hope to see you Friday!! -Casey #beginnerrunner #newrunner #howtostartrunning #runningtips #running

proteincardiowalking

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Fitness & Workouts

I’m a Running Coach And This is How I Would Start My Running From Scratch

Couple staying hydrated after workout
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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothSep 22, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Dr. Casey Guthmiller, PT, DPT (@r4ucoaching) is a running coach and social media influencer who shares viral videos about how to maximize your workouts via running. In a recent video, he reveals the best way to get started with running if you are a beginner. “If I could start my running career over from scratch, here's exactly what I would do,” he says at the start of the clip.

Start By Walking

Man tying jogging shoesShutterstock

“First, I'd walk. I'd just walk,” he says about how to get started in running. “As a society who spends a lot of time sitting at desks, expecting to go straight from this to running can often be too much too soon, and lead to injury, walking is an underrated precursor to running.”

RELATED:7 Best Snacks For Protein and Fiber, According to Dietitian

What Are the Health Benefits of Walking?

the man walking the dog early in the morning by the riverShutterstock

Why should you walk? Brisk walking can help you maintain a healthy weight and lose body fat, prevent or manage various conditions, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, cancer, and type 2 diabetes, says the Mayo Clinic . It can also help improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen your bones and muscles, improve muscle endurance, increase energy levels, improve your mood, cognition, memory and sleep, improve your balance and coordination, strengthen immune system, and reduce stress and tension.

Then, Add Strength Training

Gym and dumbbell weight training equipment on sport ,Healthy life and gym exercise equipments and sports concept ,copy spaceShutterstock

Another way to prepare your body for running? Hit the gym. “Second, I would strength train just three to four exercises. Twice a week is enough. Get strong to run. Don't run to get strong,” he explains.

RELATED:Studies Show These are Proven Ways to Lose Visceral Fat

What Are the Benefits of Strength Training?

Man exercising with barbell. Male bodybuilder doing weight lifting workout at gym.Shutterstock

According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

  • Develop strong bones
  • Manage your weight
  • Enhance your quality of life
  • Manage chronic conditions
  • Sharpen your thinking skills

Go On Run Walks

Silhouettes of a man running with a puppy on a leash on a sunset backgroundShutterstock

“Third, I'd add some running bouts to my walks, walking for a certain period of time, running for a certain period of time,” he says. “I'd gradually build this up until I could run for 15 minutes straight, 30 minutes straight, and 60 minutes straight. 80 to 90% of this running would be slow and easy.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to start running, prep your body by walking and doing strength training.

@r4ucoaching

If I could start my running career over from scratch, these are 3 of the main steps I would take. Running & strength programs incorporating these 3 steps are just part of what’s included in the app for beginner runners, early-released this Friday (11/10). Your strong and healthy running foundation awaits! I hope to see you Friday!! -Casey #beginnerrunner #newrunner #howtostartrunning #runningtips #running

Fitness & Workouts

Get in Shape with the Army’s Running Routine

Matt Choi
TikTok/@mattchoi6
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothApr 02, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Do you have what it takes to run like you are in the military? Matt Choi (@mattchoi6) is an athlete, running coach, and social media influencer who regularly shares videos about how to get into shape via marathon running. In a recent TikTok video, he reveals the army’s running routine, which is grueling but effective, he says. “This is a running routine if you're in the Army. Good luck,” he says in the clip. We also asked Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian.

1. Day One: 30 Minute Jog

Matt ChoiTikTok/@mattchoi6

The routine starts off at a moderate pace. “Day one, we're starting with a 30-minute continuous jog,” he says, recommending finding some workout buddies. “Get some other soldiers to join you.”

2. Day 2: Sprints

Matt ChoiTikTok/@mattchoi6

The next day involves sprinting. “Day two, a hundred-meter striders, and you're resting for 60 seconds,” he continues.

3. Day 3: Four Mile Run

Matt ChoiTikTok/@mattchoi6

The third day, things get more intense. “Day three, four mile run without stopping,” he says.

4. Day 4: Burpees

Matt ChoiTikTok/@mattchoi6

The fourth day doesn’t involve any running. “Day four, we're switching it up a little bit. A hundred burpees. You could break this up into however many sets and reps,” he explains.

5. Dave 5: Two Mile Run

Matt ChoiTikTok/@mattchoi6

Back to running on day five, he recommends. “Grab a stopwatch two miles for time,” he says.

RELATED: Emily Skye Shows Off Her Defined Six-Pack and Shares Glutes Home Workout

6. RDN Says: This Isn’t a Beginner Workout

Matt ChoiTikTok/@mattchoi6

“This is a lot of running and exercise for a beginner,” says Collingwood. “If you are going from the couch, this is definitely too much too soon.” She recommends starting with a walk/run routine taking as many walk breaks as you need when you first begin. “I like the idea of mixing in some high-intensity faster intervals with rest in between, but again, be careful that you don’t injure yourself,” she adds. She also recommends warming up with at least a 5-minute light jog before you start sprinting and cooling down afterward to bring your heart rate back down and stretch afterward. “Burpees are an excellent exercise, but 100 burpees are really difficult. I would much rather see 10 different exercises using 10 reps of each rather than 100 of one exercise to prevent injury and burnout,” she notes.

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to start running, make sure you ease into it. You don’t need to start by sprinting! And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss This Is Exactly How to Lose Body Fat This Year

@mattchoi6

Reply to @cisco.222 running routine if you’re in the army! #runners #army #runningtiktok #athletes #running

Fitness & Workouts

Man Runs Every Day For 30 Days and This is What It Did to His Body

Jesse_James_West16
Copyright Jesse James West/YouTube
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackDec 22, 2024
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Running seems simple enough - just put one foot in front of the other and keep going. Yet most of us struggle to make it a consistent habit. Jesse James West, a fitness enthusiast with 5 million YouTube subscribers, decided to test his limits by signing up for a marathon with just 30 days to prepare. His journey from barely running three miles to completing a marathon offers insights for anyone looking to transform their fitness routine.

The First Steps: Reality Hits Hard

West started his journey with the confidence of a beginner. "I feel like you just run and you just don't stop and I should be fine," he says in the video. Reality quickly set in during his first run. "I'm already cramping. Why does it feel like I can't breathe?" His struggles mirror what many experience when starting a running routine – the shock of discovering just how challenging it can be.

RELATED: This Is Exactly How to Lose Body Fat This Year

Early Lessons: Equipment Matters

The initial days brought painful revelations about proper equipment. After struggling with severe blisters, West discovered a crucial mistake. "Turns out my shoes are drastically too small. This isn't 11. This is what I've been wearing and apparently I am a 12," he learned during a professional fitting. This simple change made a significant difference in his training comfort.

RELATED: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

The Physical Challenge

Maintaining his bodybuilding routine while running daily created unique challenges. West committed to both disciplines, noting, "Even though we are running every single day and that is literally a workout on its own, I promise myself that I will always hit my workouts regardless of how I'm feeling." His body began showing visible changes, becoming leaner while maintaining muscle mass.

Breaking Through Mental Barriers

By the second week, mental fatigue set in. "I expected this commitment to positively affect my mental health, but the opposite started to take place," West admits. "I'm overworked, tired. I'm doing everything I can to stay positive, but I feel like there's sometimes in life where it's just hard to be positive." This raw honesty about the mental struggle resonates with anyone who's undertaken a challenging fitness goal.

The Transformation Begins

As the challenge progressed, West's relationship with running evolved dramatically. "Running is turning into a meditation even though it's so tiring. There's some sort of inner peace of just running and not thinking about anything but going forward," he shares. His body adapted, too. "Running does not wreck your physique. It'll just make you burn so many more calories that you get shredded by mistake," he observed, noting visible changes in his physique.

Preparing for Race Day

Training intensified as marathon day approached. During his longest training run, West reflected, "It's so crazy. We started this challenge barely being able to complete three miles. We have a week until the marathon, and I'm finishing 10 miles right now." This milestone showed how quickly the body can adapt with consistent training.

RELATED:25 Health Mistakes This Ex-College Athlete Made in Her 20s "So You Don't Have To"

The Marathon: Proving It's Possible

Despite starting 14 minutes late on race day, West approached the marathon with determination. "30 days ago, I could barely run three miles without cramping, feeling horrible, and almost passing out. Today, we're about to conquer 26.2," he declared. During the race, he discovered deeper truths about perseverance. "Running is sort of like a metaphor for life. The harder you run, the farther you run, the more pain you are going to endure. But the more things you are going to accomplish."

Beyond the Physical Transformation

The challenge's impact went beyond physical changes. "By doing hard things and putting yourself in these situations, you can prove to yourself that you are worth it without anyone else's opinion," West reflects. His unexpected first-place finish in his age group proved that dedication and consistent effort can lead to extraordinary results, even for beginners.

The journey from non-runner to marathon finisher in 30 days demonstrates that with proper dedication and consistent effort, remarkable transformations are possible. Whether you're contemplating your first mile or dreaming of a marathon, West's experience shows that the biggest limits we face are often the ones we place on ourselves. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Fitness & Workouts

58-Year-Old Fitness Coach Shows How to Take 3,500 Steps in 30 Minutes

Schellea_Shelly_Fowler28
Copyright fabulous.50s/Instagram
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackDec 11, 2024
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Struggling to hit your daily step goals, especially when getting outside isn't an option? You're not alone. That's where Schellea "Shelly" Fowler comes in. As a 58-year-old certified Neuroathletics coach and fitness instructor, Shelly has developed a unique indoor walking program that helps women over 50 reach their fitness goals without leaving home. Discover how you can achieve 3,500 steps in just 30 minutes with her engaging, easy-to-follow workout.

Your Step-by-Step Workout Plan

"This workout is suitable for beginners but perfect for everybody," says Shelly in her post. "It's fast-paced but very doable." The program alternates between 30 seconds of fast walking and 30 seconds of targeted movements. By the end, you'll complete 3,522 steps and walk 2.8 kilometers (1.8 miles), all within your living room.

Starting Your Indoor Journey

Begin with gentle marching and deep breathing. "Start by raising your arms above your head and down, breathing in and out," Shelly instructs. "You can either go at the same pace as me, slower, or you can jog the whole way through." This warm-up prepares your body for the steps ahead.

Making Every Step Count

Shelly emphasizes the importance of commitment: "You are here because you decided to be so. Make sure that you put in a lot of effort and get everything you can out of this workout because your body absolutely deserves to be treated well." Each step brings you closer to your daily movement goals.

RELATED: 8 Weight Loss Hacks a Nutritionist Used to Drop 50 Pounds Naturally

Adding Power to Your Steps

"Keep your core held in tight," Shelly emphasizes. "We are burning fat, we're burning calories, and we are making our bodies strong." The workout incorporates twisting movements that engage your core while walking, maximizing the benefit of every step.

Staying Motivated Step After Step

To keep spirits high, Shelly suggests a unique approach: "Think about three good things that have happened to you today. They don't have to be big. The point is that you are noticing them and the good thing about noticing the good is that you're not focusing on the bad."

Full-Body Movement Enhancement

"Take your arms out parallel to the floor," Shelly guides, "and we're going to do kickbacks again, keeping our arms in the same position." These arm movements boost your step count while engaging your upper body, making each minute more effective.

RELATED: Nutritionist Loses 20 Pounds With These 6 High-Volume Eating Tricks "Without Feeling Hungry"

Dynamic Step Variations

"Right hand to left knee, left hand to right knee and keep going with that," Shelly instructs. "This is great for coordination, but take it at your own pace." These cross-body movements add variety to your steps while improving balance and coordination.

Building Your Step Success

As you progress, Shelly encourages thinking ahead: "Now is a great time to set yourself some fitness goals. Look what you're doing now. If you did something like this every day, how do you think you're going to feel in a couple of months?"

Celebrating Your Achievement

"It's important that you don't stop altogether," Shelly advises during the cool-down phase. "We've got to bring ourselves back down until our breathing returns to normal levels." She celebrates your accomplishment: "You've just walked 1.8 miles or 2.8 kilometers. You've taken 3,522 steps. Well done. How good is that?"

RELATED: Coach Drops 20 Pounds in 90 Days By Breaking Rules, “What I Didn't Know Was Working Against Me”

Making It Part of Your Daily Routine

Shelly concludes with an inspiring message about consistency: "Make it a commitment that you're going to exercise every single day. You can do it because you are amazing." She emphasizes that this indoor walking routine can easily become part of your daily step goals.

Taking Your Next Steps

"If you've got some energy left, keep going for a little bit longer," Shelly suggests. "And if you're ready to slow down, take time to stretch and get ready for the day." Remember, these 3,500 steps are just the beginning of your fitness journey, and you can achieve them anytime, right at home. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Nutrition & Diet

I Lost 20 Pounds with the 12-3-30 “Advanced” Walking Workout

Morgan_Green9
Morgan Green/YouTube
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJun 13, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Do you want to lose weight without having to lift weights or do HIIT workouts? According to endless weight loss influencers and experts, you don’t have to. Morgan Green is an influencer who lost 20 pounds just by walking and incorporating some healthy eating habits into her life. In one viral video, she reveals that the 12-3-30 walking workout was the ultimate game-changer and the catalyst to her weight loss success.

12-3-30 Is Her Main Workout Method

Morgan_Green1Morgan Green/YouTube

“On the regular I do mainly treadmill workouts. I'm a huge, huge 12-3-30 supporter. You may or may not know that by now. Obviously, sometimes I do other workouts. This is just like my main, my go-to, my regular, my routine workout,” she says at the start of the clip.

Well, the 12-30-30 “Advanced”

Morgan_Green7Morgan Green/YouTube

“Now you may be thinking, Morgan, I already know what the 12-3-30 is. It's pretty self-explanatory. No, I've been doing it for a while where I have gotten to a new routine with it, with a little bit of different numbers, little bit of change, and I do what I call, 12-3-30 Advanced. So I've worked up to what I'm gonna show you,” she says.

First, She Grabs Her iPad and Water

Cropped photo of attractive fitness woman sitting in gym and holding bottle of water.Shutterstock

Prior to working out, Morgan prepares. “I must grab my iPad and my water. Here we go. This is my setup,a big full water, iPad, phone,” she says.

[She Likes That the Workout Is Adaptable

Morgan_Green2Morgan Green/YouTube

“I really just love the 12-3-30 so much because you can adjust it however you need to fit your needs simply by the click of a button in so many ways,” she continues. “Like whether you want more or less incline, more or less speed, more or less time. And incline walking is just such a great form of exercise and it actually helped me lose a lot of weight.”

Second, She Queues Up Her Favorite Shows

Morgan_Green11Morgan Green/YouTube

“I love to watch YouTube, watch Keeping Up with the Kardashians, watch whatever I want and it passes the time,” she says. She also explains that she loves a “good walk,” but it’s not realistic to walk outside because she lives in Wisconsin.

Lap One, She Sticks to the OG 12-3-30

Morgan_Green4Morgan Green/YouTube

“How I do my numbers is on a lap by lap basis. So I am just going to explain what each lap entails,” says Morgan. “First I will get started with the regular 12-3-30, so 12 incline and three speed. And that is what I will start with for my lap one. And we will go from there.”

She Starts Alternating Between Increasing the Speed and the Incline by One Increment for the First 6 or So Laps

Morgan_Green5Morgan Green/YouTube

“Basically starting with the second lap, I alternate between increasing the speed and the incline by one increment. So lap one is the regular 12, incline three speed lap two, I increase the speed to 3.1, lap three, I increased the incline at 12.5, lap four, I increased the speed to 3.2, lap five, I increased the incline to 13 lap six, I increased the speed to 3.3. I stay at 13 incline, 3.3 speed until I complete about six and a half laps. It takes me to 1.65 miles and about 31 minutes and 30 seconds,” she says.

Then She Decreases the Incline to 9, and Starts a Cool Down with the Speed at 3.3 But Incline Decreased Every Lap

Woman using incline threadmill in modern gym. Incline threadmills are used to simulate uphill walking or running and deliver additional workout benefits to users.Shutterstock

“Then I decrease the incline to nine, keep the speed the same, I finish out that lap seven from here I start my cool down. So I decrease the incline by one increment every lap. But I keep the speed at 3.3 the whole time until I get closer to four miles. So right before I hit four miles, I end with 4.5 incline and 3.3 speed. Then once I hit four miles, I decrease it to whatever I want for the final, final cool down.”

She Builds and Declines

Morgan_Green16Morgan Green/YouTube

“So basically I start and I build, build, build. And then I have a very long decline and I carry out till four miles. And from there I just really walk slow, take away basically all the incline, take away basically all the speed and just cool it down. And then I'm done,” she says.

RELATED: I Lost 20 Pounds with the 12-3-30 “Advanced” Walking Workout

The 80-Minute Workout Is a “Mental Escape”

Morgan_Green15Morgan Green/YouTube

“It usually takes me around 80 minutes. So this is a long workout, but that's how I like it. It's kind of like a mental escape,” Morgan says.

She Doesn’t Hold Onto the Handles

Morgan_Green17Morgan Green/YouTube

“One thing that is key that I don't do that is challenging when you're first getting used to this workout is I don't hold on to these handles,” she reveals. “When I very first started doing this workout, I did, but as I progress, like you get accustomed to not doing it.”

She Also Doesn’t Stretch much

Young female athlete exercising on treadmill in modern gym, setting up difficulty level.Shutterstock

She also admits that she doesn’t stretch a lot. “I don't do any crazy stretches. I mean I just do some stretches. I should probably get a whole stretching routine. That might be nice,” she says.

You Can Cut the Workout Shorter

Morgan_Green12Morgan Green/YouTube

Morgan also points out that you don’t have to do a full 80 minutes. “if you're having an off day or just need to cut it short for whatever reason, like you can cut it short. You can lessen the speed, you can lessen the incline, you can customize this however you want,” she says.

She Plans on Increasing the Intensity Even More

Morgan_Green3Morgan Green/YouTube

“Maybe in the future I'll even up it more once I'm more in shape. I am just the biggest 12-2-30 supporter and I credit this a lot to losing weight recently. Like a lot, a lot because this is the main workout I would do. And I don't belong to a gym. So because I have a treadmill at home, which I'm so appreciative of, it's perfect for me,” she says.

RELATED:20 Abdominal Fat-Blasting Tips for a Flatter Stomach in 60 Days

Walking on an Incline Burns More Fat Than a Flat Surface

Legs of woman running on treadmillShutterstock

Walking on an incline burns more calories than walking fast or even running on a flat surface, which is why many experts suggest upping your incline. A 2013 study even found that walking on a 2 to 7 percent incline increased heart rate by almost 10 percent when compared with running on a flat surface.

Nutrition & Diet

20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

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20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic
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Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 12, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
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✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Ozempic can be highly effective for weight loss, but there are definitely some unpleasant side effects to contend with, as the makers of the drug, Novo Nordisk, warn about. Nausea, constipation, and stomach pain are common, but avoiding certain foods and behaviors can make a difference. Here are 20 things to avoid while on Ozempic, to make the most of the medication and encourage healthy weight loss.

Too Much Sugar

Different sugar on dark tableShutterstock

Added sugars, and sugary sodas, can spike blood sugar. Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, recommends that people avoid sugary foods while on the drug. “If you are taking medication to lower your sugar levels, it is advisable to avoid excess sugar consumption,” Dr. Dina Peralta-Reich, MD, FAAP, FOMA, tells Parade. “Failure to watch what you eat and keep your sugar levels elevated may prevent you from seeing the intended results of the medication,” she shares.”

Ultra-Processed Foods

Pop,Tarts,Toaster,Pastry,processed,food,sugar​2. Processed FoodsShutterstock

Ultra-processed foods can make side effects of Ozempic worse. “This medication slows down gastric emptying and the dense food will move much slower through your intestines, which can make you feel sick [and experience] nausea, vomiting, reflux and abdominal pain,” says Dr. Peralta-Reich. “Someone may not see the results they're looking for either.”

High-Fat Foods

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Foods high in saturated and trans fats can make side effects of Ozempic worse. Some people complain of diarrhea and stomach pains. “I’ve seen an almost dumping syndrome-like response in people taking GLP-1s when they eat simple carbohydrates and high-fat foods,” Dr. Shauna Levy, a specialist in obesity medicine and medical director of the Tulane Bariatric and Weight Loss Center in New Orleans, tells TODAY.

Sitting All Day

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Staying active is important while on Ozempic. Regular exercise is not only important for health, it can prevent muscle loss. The goal should be fat loss, and getting strong.

Not Hydrating

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Don’t forget to drink your water and stay hydrated. Drinking water can help with side effects of Ozempic, especially nausea. Ozempic.com recommends drinking clear or ice-cold drinks to combat any nausea and discomfort.

Too Much Alcohol

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Avoid alcohol on Ozempic, experts advice. “One, it’s just empty calories. Two, it tends to make people make decisions that they otherwise might not make,” says Dr. Levy. “It could increase hunger, and the whole point of GLP-1s, or at least one of the points, is to decrease hunger. So it sort of negates their purpose.”

Be Mindful of Portions

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Ozempic keeps food in the stomach longer, so bigger portions can cause discomfort. “Understanding that overall portions are smaller on these medications, we want to optimize nutritional intake and consume the ‘best’ calories available,” obesity medicine physician Dr. Christopher McGowan tells TODAY. “The focus should be on lean protein, healthy fruits and vegetables, adequate fiber and adequate fluid intake.”

Be Mindful of Coffee

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“Overall, coffee is perfectly fine to consume, but for some individuals can lead to stomach irritation,” says Dr. McGowan. “Therefore, I recommend drinking coffee in moderation, such as one to two cups a day. Patients should also be mindful of calorie-dense additives, like cream and sugar.”

Don’t Skip Meals

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It’s easy to skip meals when on Ozempic, but make sure you’re getting enough nutrition. Some people have even become malnourished as a result of not eating. “It’s never healthy to not eat,” Dr. Hwang said. Dr. Janice Jin Hwang, the division chief of endocrinology and metabolism at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine tells the New York Times.

Don’t Consider It a Quick Fix

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Ozempic should be part of a long-term health plan. “It’s important to note that if you start taking either of these drugs for weight loss, your body may get used to it, establishing a new normal,” says UC Davis Health. This can cause your weight to plateau. Research has shown that if you stop taking Ozempic (or Wegovy), it's likely that you will gain back the weight you lost.”

Same Unhealthy Lifestyle

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Don’t continue an unhealthy diet and assume it’s ok because of Ozempic. “You can likely lose weight on semaglutide medications without changing your diet and activity behaviors, but these lifestyle changes will make the treatment more effective,” Richard Siegel, MD, tells the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. “Also, we don’t know if weight loss will have the same health benefits if one does not change their behaviors.”

Protect Your Health

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Some doctors warn that taking Ozempic can make people complacent about their health. “It is important to remember that obesity is heterogenous, chronic and complex,” Vijaya Surampudi, MD, physician nutrition specialist and assistant director of the UCLA Weight Management Program (RFO), tells UCLA Health. “There is no cure for obesity. It requires lifelong treatment that’s not one size fits all.”

Carbonated Beverages

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Ozempic slows down digestion, keeping food in your stomach for longer. This causes a feeling of fullness and some unpleasant side effects for some people like belching. Stick to still water as carbonated beverages can make stomach issues worse.

Long-Term Goals

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If you plan on only taking Ozempic or Wegovy for a short while, it’s likely your weight will come back on. “In one trial of Wegovy, people regained about two-thirds of the weight lost within a year of stopping the drug,” Dr. Siegel explains. “Lifestyle changes can help maintain weight loss, but it’s unusual to maintain all weight loss once you stop any weight loss medication.”

Refined Carbohydrates

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Refined carbohydrates tend to spike blood sugar, which is exactly what Ozempic is meant to treat. You don’t have to cut these foods out entirely, but be aware it makes it harder for Ozempic to do its job. “Foods like white bread, white rice, crackers, or even cereals may seem like better choices than foods with added sugar, but refined carbohydrates still metabolize as glucose in the body,” Christine Fallabel, MPH, tells Diabetes Strong.

Watch Out For High Fiber

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While many green vegetables are low GI, be careful about the fiber. “If you’re not used to eating a lot of vegetables, you may experience side effects such as bloating and gas, until your body has acclimated to eating a more fiber-filled diet,” Fallabel says.

Junk Food

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Junk food—which you should be avoiding either way for weight loss purposes—often contains high levels of sodium. “Ultra-processed foods are high in sodium, saturated fats and added sugars, which contribute to a range of health problems,” Elizabeth Ko, MD, and Eve Glazier, MD, tell UCLA Health. These include an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, lowered immune response, certain cancers, dementia and early death.”

Spicy Foods

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Ozempic can cause acid reflux due to slow digestion. Spicy foods can make acid reflux worse, experts warn. However, if acid reflux is not an issue, people can probably enjoy spicy foods if they wish.

Always See a Medical Professional

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Ozempic should only be prescribed by a medical professional. “Typically, I prescribe Ozempic for diabetes and have more often prescribed Wegovy for weight loss,” endocrinologist Alyssa Dominguez, MD, tells Keck Medicine. “I have used Ozempic, sometimes, off-label for weight loss, though getting insurance approval for that can be challenging.”

Fried Foods

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Fried, greasy foods can make Ozempic stomach issues worse. “Foods high in fat can make digestive side effects worse. Since food hangs around longer in the stomach, it has more time to cause problems,” Sarah Bullard, MS, RD, LD, tells Signos. “Some studies have shown that consuming too much fat can increase symptoms of fullness, nausea, and bloating in individuals with digestive issues and heartburn. Reducing fat intake resolved symptoms.”

💪🔥Body Booster: A whole foods Mediterranean diet is ideal while taking Ozempic.

Fitness & Workouts

Sophie van Oostenbrugge Shares Her Routine

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Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 11, 2025
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✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Do you want to get your glutes sculpted for summer? Sophie van Oostenbrugg is a fitness trainer and the founder of the Gains with Brains app. She regularly shares workouts with her 2.4 million Instagram followers on how to burn fat and build muscle. “I grew up hearing that women should be as small as possible. That’s why I loved being able to share my bulking journey on social. I’ve done 2 bulks so far.. and I was thinking about starting and sharing a 3rd one,” she wrote in a recent post. She also revealed her “medium leg day” workout, which will help you tone up fast.

She Does Multiple Leg Days a Week

“I have good news today..it’s a medium leg day!!!🫣🤭sooo I split my leg workouts & currently have lighter, medium and heavier days. this helps me with recovery, train through a variety of rep ranges and make it more enjoyable,” she explains in the post.

She Does 8 to 12 Reps of Each Exercise

In the video she explains that she has “multiple leg days per week.” She goes onto reveal all of the exercises she does with “rep ranges from 8 to 12.”

RDLS

“I started with RDLs, four sets of eight,” Sophie reveals. To do Romanian deadlifts, start with both legs pressed evenly on the floor. “Slightly bend knees while bending over,” says The Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian. “Keep your arms pointing down toward the floor and lower with you almost touching the floor. Keep hips and shoulders square facing forward throughout the exercise. Return to standing.” She suggests repeating 10 to 12 times with the right leg and repeating on the left side. “Progression includes holding a weight in the arm pointing toward the floor,” she adds.

Sumo Squat with Kettlebell

“Then I moved on to a sumo squat with kettlebell. You know the deal, form over everything, so go slow and control the weight,” she says. Sumo squats are similar to regular squats, only you point your toes outward.

Glute Bridges

“Then I did glute bridges,” Sophie continues. You can do glute bridges with or without weights.

Cable Step Up

Next up? Cable step ups, using an exercise block. “These are great as they help with balance and therefore they're easier to overload,” she says.

Seated Leg Curl

She sits down at a machine. “Then I did a seated leg curl,” she says.

Core Exercise

“I finished with some core exercises,” Sophie concludes. “I want to get my core as strong as humanly possible so I can keep recording more intense ab workouts.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Try splitting up your workouts into light, medium, and intense days to allow your body ample time needed to recover.

Fitness & Workouts

She Lost 70 Pounds From Hot Girl Walks

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Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 11, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Do you want to accelerate your weight loss? Go on a hot girl walk. Joy Maria (@therealjoyymaria/video) is a weight loss influencer and mother who lost 70 pounds in less than 11 months. One of her secret weight loss weapons? “Hot girl walks,” she reveals in a video. “Walking is a thousand percent, the most underrated way to lose weight,” she adds, “and one of my favorite things to do is walk.” Here is everything you need to know about how she lost weight, including some great walking tips.

She Walks to Run Her Errands

@therealjoyymaria Dont sleep on walking 🫶🏽 #hotgirlwalk #walking #weightloss #weightlosstransformation #weightlosscheck #postpartumweightloss ♬ original sound - JOY 💕

She Recommends Walking After a Workout to “Cool Down

“I love walking after training because it's low impact, and my trainer's pretty intense. So it's just kind of like my cool down. I can listen to podcasts, I can answer emails, I can talk on the phone, scroll on TikTok, whatever. So get to walking, sis,” she says.

Calorie Deficit

In another video she details “exactly” how she went from 230 pounds to 160 pounds in 10 to 11 months. “If somebody is telling you that you can lose weight without being in a calorie deficit run because they're lying,” she continues, calling it “the most important step” to losing weight. “I know you guys have heard the saying, you cannot outrun a bad diet, and it's so true. Google, TDEE calculator. From there, put in your information. I'm gonna tell you exactly how many calories you need to eat. I ate about 1600 to 1800 calories daily, just depending on my activity level for the day. If I did two workouts that day, I would eat closer to 1800. If I had a more sedentary day, I would eat closer to 1500 to 1600.”

Meal Plan

Next she recommends a meal plan. “I have a seven day meal plan available at the top of my profile. It just makes it really easy when you're going to a grocery shop, when you're first starting out, when things are structured, it's gonna make it a lot easier to follow and just to stay consistent, not skipping breakfast, especially if we're exercising.”

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

Her favorite breakfast is “avocado toast on sourdough bread, one hard boiled egg,” which she seasons, adding truffle hot sauce, two pieces of bacon, and one piece of sausage. “High protein, good, healthy fat, and a healthy balance of carbs,” she says. “This can also be a breakfast or a lunch because it is super filling.” Another favorite is yogurt bowls made with Dannon Light and Fit Greek yogurt with granola blackberries and blueberries. She also likes tunacado sandwiches with sourdough bread, cheese, tomato, avocado, and pesto basil spread. For dinner she might have a small bowl of Turkey chili.

Hydration

She also drinks “a ton” of water, “like a gallon of water a day,” she says. The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends that men should drink about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day and women about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids. Why is hydration so important? Water helps get rid of waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature normal, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues, according to Mayo Clinic.

Working Out

Working out is the “second most important part,” she says. “I was taking group classes when it first started. They were high intensity bootcamp. From there, I got a trainer at the same gym. I also work out on my own. If the gym intimidates you, I strongly recommend you guys try some group fitness classes. They're a really great way to hold yourself accountable because you're in a group setting and the people around you can motivate you,” she adds. “I incorporated Pilates about nine to 10 months into my fitness journey, and I wish I would've done it sooner.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you are working out but not seeing the weight loss results you desire, add walking to your routine every day.

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