TV actor Dilip Joshi, best known for playing Jethalal in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, recently shared that he once lost 16 kg in just one and a half months. And he didn’t do it by going to the gym or following a strict diet. In an earlier interview, which is now going viral, Joshi said he simply went jogging every day back in 1992. “I used to go to work, change at the swimming club, and jog across Marine Drive till the Oberoi Hotel, even in the rain, and then come back. It took me around 45 minutes. That’s how I lost 16 kg,” he said.
His revelation that he lost 16 kg just by jogging every day has surprised fans, many of whom are now wondering, can regular jogging really help you lose weight that quickly? Holistic health coach Dr Mickey Mehta says yes, but with the right approach. He explains in an interaction with The Indian Express how jogging helps burn fat, builds stamina, and improves overall health.
Jogging can help you lose weight naturally
Health experts agree that Dilip Joshi’s weight loss journey shows how consistent movement can help you lose weight and achieve your weight loss goals. Dr Mehta told The Indian Express that jogging or running in the early years can have lasting benefits. “It prevents obesity, builds muscle endurance and keeps your heart healthy,” he said.
But he also cautioned that beginners shouldn’t jump into jogging without preparation. “I would never recommend anybody who has never jogged before to suddenly start doing so without a cardiac evaluation. Start with brisk walking, then try spot jogs before moving onto regular jogging,” Dr Mehta advised.
How jogging helps burn fat
Jogging is an aerobic exercise that burns calories over time. When your body uses up its immediate energy sources, it starts breaking down fat to keep going.
“Jogging helps your body use fat stores for energy. Over time, this leads to weight loss,” Dr Mehta explained. A 30-minute jog can burn anywhere from 200 to 500 calories, depending on your speed and body weight.
What makes jogging extra effective is that it targets large muscle groups. “Our legs have nearly two-thirds of our muscle mass,” Dr Mehta said. “This includes thighs and calves, muscles that play a big role in movement, metabolism and fat burning,” he further added.
You can add other moves too
Dr Mehta also suggested combining jogging with other simple movements to make it more effective and engaging. “You can add arm circles, jumping jacks, or slow bouncing while jogging. These exercises improve muscle strength, motor coordination and endurance,” he said.
Jogging is great for belly fat too
If you’re trying to reduce stubborn belly fat, jogging might be a good choice. It helps reduce both subcutaneous fat (under the skin) and visceral fat (around the organs), the latter being linked to serious health issues like heart disease and diabetes.
“Jogging strengthens the cardiovascular system, boosts metabolism and supports long-term weight management,” Dr Mehta added.
Breathing right while running matters
According to Dr Mehta, learning to breathe correctly while jogging can improve your stamina and weight loss results. “Breathing techniques like rhythmic breathing or pursed lip breathing increase oxygen intake. This allows you to run longer and burn more calories, not just during the workout, but also while your body recovers later,” he explained.
Why your calf muscles matter
Jogging also strengthens the calf muscles, especially the soleus, often called our “second heart.”
“A strong soleus muscle improves balance, reduces injury risk, and helps in long-distance jogging. It also helps pump blood back up to the heart,” Dr Mehta explained.
What you need to get started
You don’t need a fancy gym membership or expensive equipment to start jogging. Just a good pair of running shoes and a safe place to jog are enough.
“Jogging is inexpensive, easy to start and extremely beneficial for both your physical and mental health,” said Dr Mehta. Pair it with a healthy diet, and you have a solid, natural weight-loss routine.
