Why is it that running and weight loss often times don't go hand in hand? Why do people gain weight when they run, especially running long distances when training for a marathon? Then there is the other issue of people dieting but not losing weight because they don't know how to incorporate running, or any type of exercise for that matter, into their routine.

The Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) doesn't want runninig and weight loss to be mutually exclusive. Next week they are launching their Running Lite program that they say will blend calorie burning through running with nutrition coaching by a Registered Dietitian. According to CARA, "Different from your ordinary weight loss program, Running Lite focuses on how running impacts body weight, calorie burning, hunger and appetite, and how to avoid common mistakes beginning runners make regarding fuel and hydration choices. This is your chance to change for good!"

Over 10 weeks, Running Lite covers: 

• Determining a healthy body weight for runners. Participants will estimate Body Mass Index, and measure waist circumference and body fat for the purpose of establishing a weight goal.
• Hunger and appetite changes in runners. Participants will learn how a running program impacts hunger and appetite, along with strategies for controlling hunger and appetite.
• Factors impacting body weight of runners. Changes in glycogen storage, muscle mass and body water are positive factors as one becomes active, but these factors can increase weight in runners. A discussion of realistic weight change and body fat changes will help the participants understand their day to day scale weight.
• Calorie balance for runners. Participants will learn how running impacts resting energy needs (basal metabolism) and how many calories they need to expend to lose weight. This is especially important for beginning runners who are expending fewer calories than they think.
• Hydration choices for runners. Hydration is a concern for any runner. Participants will learn how much fluid is needed daily and how to make calorie-wise beverage choices.
• Fuel for weight-conscious runners. Participants will learn to make healthier food choices by focusing on nutrient density and portion control. Weekly goals: (1) balance food choices to include all food groups, (2) compare portions eaten to daily goals, (3) increase calories burned.
• Running safety.
• Celebrating success. Change is a process that requires short-term goals and rewards. Participants will celebrate their successes to date set new goals for improving their health and running program.

Also over the 10 weeks, Running Lite participants will receive:

• Five weekly Nutrition Clinics instructed by a Registered Dietician (the other five weeks will include clinics on proper footwear; stretching; core strengthening; and more.) 
• Ten weekly group walk/run workouts following the clinics 
• Weekly workout schedules 
• CARA branded technical shirt
• Nutrition support from the Registered Dietician via e-mail and/or phone 
• 20% off follow up consultations (after the end of the program) with the Registered Dietician
• Complimentary book on running and nutrition - title to be determined.

Each weekly session will include:

CARA's Running Lite program will be held on Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. starting April 1 and will take place at Lululemon, 900 N. Michigan Ave. (3rd Floor).

For more information and to register (You can also register at next week's launch clinic.) go to: http://www.cararuns.org/Training/Running%20Lite/About.aspx.

Cost of the program is $120 for CARA members and $150 for non-members. If you want to join CARA, costs for the year start at $38. Membership includes:

• Discounted race entry fees at hundreds of races throughout the Chicagoland area
•  Year (12 issues) subscription to Runner's World magazine ($20 value) included with memberships above $38  
• Weekly e-newsletter with the latest information on happenings in the running community
• Special invitations and discounts to members-only events or CARA sponsored promotions
• Discounts from local running stores on the gear you need to get up and go
• Access to exclusive members-only race day tents and gear checks at selected races throughout the running season
• CARA Race Circuit
• Awards just for running races, regardless of your level of ability.
• Durable membership card/key tag that can be used at retailers, race expos, and race day for special CARA member promotions
• Discounts on CARA's premier training programs which serve all levels of runners, in most locations, and at all paces
• Access to a huge community of healthy, fitness oriented, fun people!