too fat to run?

[EmDee]

I was thinking about beginning that "couch to 5K" program...I have walked about 1.5 - 2.0 miles religiously every day for two months and think I want to step things up a notch.

But I wonder about the strain on my body...right now I am carrying about 210 lbs on a big boned 5'7" frame, have never jogged in my life, My knees and back are not great, but I think losing weight will help both areas.

Thought there might be some expertise I could tap into here ~ should I wait till I drop lower before I attempt this program?

[Lollypop-]

Re: too fat to run?

EmDee,

I think you can do it! The most important thing is to take it slow and listen to your body.

For instance, I only jog on the treadmill because it has shock absorbtion for my knees. I only run at 4mph. I only do it for a short amount of time and every other day. Afterwards, I ice my shins to help the inflammation and prohibt shin splints. Even though my time and effort is limited I love how I feel afterward. I hope you do too. Good luck!

Lollypop

[imagood1]

Re: too fat to run?

I would start with short intervals of running then walking.....maybe 30 seconds of running and a couple minutes of walking then back to 30 seconds of running. I agree with Lollypop, stat slow and make sure you don't push too hard. Good luck & let us know how you do.

[Greeneggs&ham]

Re: too fat to run?

I just finished week 1 of that program. I am a 6' male weighing in at about 245 pounds. The program doesn't require you to finish a set distance week to week -- only to stick to the jog/walk intervals. Set a slower pace in the early weeks to ease your body into it and your body will let you know when it's ready to speed things up. I was doing no exercise of any sort the previous two months so if you have already been walking, I see no reason why you couldn't add C25K now. Keep us posted on your progress!

[liv]

Re: too fat to run?

Yes your size is not an issue. Your knees on the other hand I would worry about. As Eric says the programme starts slow and buid up so do take it slow. And if any issues happen with your knees consider switchin elliptical that would be better for knees. And continue walking. Walking is good stuff.
If you decide to run - a good pair of shoes is a must.

[EmDee]

Re: too fat to run?

thank you all, for both the advice and the encouragement! I will start today...and if you never see me again, you'll know what happened!

j/k LOL!

[liv]

Re: too fat to run?

Come back and tell is how it went.
I did the C25K last year and it worked. But those first few outings were tough.