Advice Needed - Alternative to Running?

CharlieBook

Hi there, i'm looking for some advice/alternatives to running. I previously trained for triathlons, but due to the make up of my feet (size 2.5) my height (5'6") and the high arch, my ankles cant support me running and they collapse, well they feel like they are going to collapse. i've tried proper running shoes, fitted by professionals and my Physiotherapists has suggested that i dont run. which is fine, as i never enjoyed it.

However, it was the best exercise i found for overall weight loss and toning, so i am looking for something that has the same effects?

i do loads of cycling (road and MTB) and try to get out walking for 1.5-2 miles a day at lunchtime (depending on work), so i am doing other stuff.

i live in the middle of nowhere, where gyms are pretty non-existent and the only swimming pool near me only opens for about 2 hours a day whilst i am at work :0/

any suggestion peeps? thanks :happy:

paulcoffield

Hey CharlieBook,

I remember reading somewhere that walking is one of the best ways to lose weight - the only problem is, that as we generally all walk everyday we are really efficient at doing so.

You can still get the benefits from a good walk by making it more difficult for yourself so you have to put more effort into it.

To make it harder than a normal wander, you could walk uphill, walk that little bit faster or even add some weight in the form of either a weight vest or a daysack with a nice big bottle of water in it. The bonus of using water is that firstly you have something to re-hydrate with along the way, and secondly - it gets lighter as you start to tire.

I'm no expert, but I've been starting to add some uphill treadmill sessions at the end of my workouts and I try to get out and walk 10-15 miles every fortnight or so and I certainly see the benefits.

If you live in the middle of nowhere I'm sure there must be plenty of space to get your walk on!