I'm embarrassed to run...
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I'm a big guy runner, and never have received any negativity while running, even when I was doing it around 300lbs. Actually I think I have received a little too much positive attention, where I've had people giving me thumbs up while driving by, or yelling good job big guy. It's really weird the only time I ever get crap is when I wear this nike shirt while walking around that says "We run in Mass" on it, and I have had people comment saying "you run" and before I can say anything my wife is usually throwing them some shade.7
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My suggestion is to find a local running store or running group that offers a beginners program. Join them and you will quickly realize there are many others just like you. You will also find that the more experienced runners will go out of their way to encourage you, help you, and include you in the group.
Good luck. Don't give up.5 -
I started running when I was at 280pounds just walk and jog at first. I have to admit I preferred cycling as it was more comfortable. But if you enjoy it, do it. You'll be running laps round the guy sat on the sofa7
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What is your current activity level? Despite popular belief running is not something everyone can and should just start doing if they want to. I don't mean to sound harsh here....but being overweight and running (most likely with terrible form) can really damage your body and cause a lot of pain and injuries.
However - the good news is that there are tons of awesome things you can do to start getting ready to become the runner you always wanted to be. Diet is a HUGE impact on weight loss. Power walking is absolutely amazing at burning fat. Swimming and water walking are fantastic. These can help you start building muscles and an aerobic base. And then once you can safely start running, I'd recommend finding a running coach to help you start exercises to help with proper form.
As others have said - you really just have to disregard what you think others might think of you. No decent person would ever judge someone for making an honest effort to better their lives. Go get the life you want!6 -
I started running when I weighed 215 lb. I was self conscious too. But here's the thing: there are three types of people who are watching you:
1) Runners who are currently out for a run. They are most likely thinking something like, "hey, another runner! Good job!"
2) Runners who are not currently out for a run. They are most likely thinking something like, "wow, I'd like to go for a run right now! I'm jealous of you!"
3) Non-runners. They might be thinking, "maybe I ought to run too," or else they're probably thinking, "oh, there's a runner." It's possible they're thinking something mean, but if they are, screw 'em. You're faster than everyone on the couch.
Let me tell you a story to illustrate this. Three miles is my usual run, three times a week, and I add mileage to that if I'm training for something. I run the same route on most days. Back in the warmest days of July, coming out of the third of five miles, my body just did not want to move anymore. It was like swimming in molasses. I was running my usual route and distance, but maybe it was the heat or humidity. Whatever the cause, I was barely moving.
A car pulled over next to me, which made me nervous. It was in broad daylight in a populated area with lots of foot traffic, but I am a very small person (both short and near my goal weight) and physically exhausted. You never know what might happen. The passenger side window rolled down and the driver waved. "I always see you out here," she said, "and I just wanted to tell you what a good job you're doing."
It turns out that she works in the neighborhood where I run, so she's usually on her way to work while I'm running. She said that for several months, she had noticed how much more I used to struggle and how much weight I had lost. We chatted for a minute, and I told her how much her words meant to me.
So yes, people might be looking at you. But you might be surprised by what they're actually thinking.
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I was about 230 lbs. and started walking around my apartment complex. Just walking at a slow pace I was huffing and puffing and sweating. People would watch me and I could imagine what they were thinking. I became known as the old walker guy.
Now I can jog up to 5 miles and power walk up to 10 miles. Some of the same people who used to watch me back then now cheer me on, and I even see them walking from time to time.
Oh, and I've lost over 50 lbs. so far.
Don't worry about what other people think. just do it for you.20 -
MeanderingMammal wrote: »
This, x100
I am happy when I encounter other runners out on the trails with me, regardless of size. In fact I can't remember the last time I even thought anything about a larger person running other than "hello fellow runner".
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Most all of the people I know who exercise regularly think, "Good on you!" when they see an overweight person working out because it shows that they've made the decision to lose weight and live a healthier lifestyle.
Also, it's better to be "that fat guy running" than "that fat guy eating a donut".
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get in there and do it... I admire anyone that I see running.... once you start, you will love it!!, go go go!1
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You have no idea what other people think--you are letting your own insecurity beat you down. Stop doing that! You have the motivation. Get out there and do it! Who cares what random people on the street think? You are too busy getting healthy to care! Do it, man! Live your dream! You got this!
FYI, after 18 months on an elliptical machine, I am two runs into C25K, and you cannot possibly progress any slower than I have.
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Like so many others said - those who are into fitness will think 'good on him - he's doing something about it' those who aren't will wish they'd have the courage to start
My motto is - I'm lapping all those sat on the couch (had to give up running due to a bad knee but i think this with any exercise i do)0 -
I was 260 when I first started my diet/ running. I could barely run for 30 seconds. I now run at least 1.5 miles 3x a week. It's a mind game. Don't worry about what others think. You're lapping everyone on the couch.
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I started as an obese runner and now consider myself an overweight one. It was the best decision to start C25K. Go buy yourself some cute running clothes, good shoes and listen to your body. I stayed on week 2-3 for 2 months to prevent injury. It empowered me and truly who gives a #%*# what others think, this is about you. Have fun and congrats on the start of something new.2
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You didn't give what your current level of fitness is, so I assume your ready to run.
Just take it slow. WGAS what others think. Most will be happy for you and encouraged.
Invest in good shoes and compression top and shorts, and you are good to go.
One of my favorite memes
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I never ran until I was well over 200. I was embarrassed at first too and did the first few weeks of my first C25K on a wetland trail with high reeds so nobody could see me. Eventually I got brave enough to run at the park and was shocked by the amount of support I got. People would give me high fives and random shout outs. Some fit young guy even slowed down to my pace once to talk to me about how he'd seen me there a few times and how great I was doing. When I ran at the gym track everyone completely ignored each other, which was fine too. I'm currently running on the street, including having to pass by a skate park full of teens, and nobody seems to care. I've never had a negative running experience because of my weight.9
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I started rowing - yes, those long skinny boats like in the Olympics! - as a 46-year-old obese woman recently out of stage III cancer treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, drugs) and pretty danged weakened. I had never done any similar competitve team sport before, nor anything that physically intense. But I worked at it, and gradually got stronger, and surprised myself with what I could do.
Please don't be embarrassed. Just start in on your dreams about who you want to be, and can be. Surprise everyone, including yourself.
Think about this: Thoughtful, decent people will admire what you're doing, working hard, becoming a better you. Anyone who thinks otherwise isn't worth your notice.
I have to say, I share some others' concern about ramping up to running quickly, while carrying a lot of weight - that's quite high impact. (I ended up with a torn meniscus from some brief jogging, so I may be over-cautious).
Your eating will likely play a bigger role in your weight than your exercise - I stayed obese, even while rowing 4-6 days/week in season, and on machines in the Winter, plus taking spin classes. But exercise will do great things for your health, mood, energy, and self-confidence.
But by all means, start! Work safely, challenge yourself, and you'll be a runner before you know it.7 -
I'm 265lbs but I've always dreamed about being a runner. I need to get my weight significantly down for a surgery I'm having in about a year. I know running will be a huge help to weight loss but... I'm embarrassed to run while being over weight. I feel like people will laugh at me on the street for being "that fat guy running". Does anyone have advice on how I can get over my anxiety?
To be honest, when I see heavier people running, I go up and fist bump them, high five what have you. I think everybody feels the way you do so let that be known that you're not alone. You have to start somewhere and the best place to start is when you're at your worst. That way there's nowhere to go but up. Screw the haters, they're just jealous that you're motivated and they're sitting there.5 -
I started running when I weighed 215 lb. I was self conscious too. But here's the thing: there are three types of people who are watching you
+1
Nice story, thanks for sharing! Also OP, I am still self conscious running with 10 kg's (22 lbs) to lose, however, I still get out there 6 times a week and am now able to run over 5 miles. While some are commenting that its harsh on your body to run carrying weight I say bah, get out there and walk, jog and eventually run distances if that is your goal. I started at 90 kg's (198 pounds) and have run off 21 kg's (46 lbs) so far without major injury. I get thumbs up and nods from other runners, the rest I try to ignore and listen to my music! Good luck!0 -
@madxwolf So many great supportive people that I have seen popping up in multiple posts have said it all.What other people think of you is irrelevant! You are doing this for your health and your future.People may well laugh. [impolite verb] them. The most important voice is the one in your head, and if that voice is telling you to get moving, then get moving. The best exercise program for you is the one that you will do.BrianSharpe wrote: »One of the things I learned very quickly when I started running is that we're invisible, we become part of the urban landscape (one of the reasons we need to be vigilant around traffic). I can't speak for non-runners but you'll find that most other runners are supportive and encouraging of your decision to lead a healthier life.My suggestion is to find a local running store or running group that offers a beginners program. Join them and you will quickly realize there are many others just like you. You will also find that the more experienced runners will go out of their way to encourage you, help you, and include you in the group. Good luck. Don't give up.there are three types of people who are watching you:
1) Runners who are currently out for a run. They are most likely thinking something like, "hey, another runner! Good job!"
2) Runners who are not currently out for a run. They are most likely thinking something like, "wow, I'd like to go for a run right now! I'm jealous of you!"
3) Non-runners. They might be thinking, "maybe I ought to run too," or else they're probably thinking, "oh, there's a runner."MeanderingMammal wrote: »Runners don't care, non-runners don't matter.
Don't overdo it, a structured plan like C25K will help. Run at a pace that you can converse at, and use short, quick paces
I could Quote quite a few more but I believe this is more than enough.
I really support the concept of a local Running Club or Running Speciality store as most of the reputable ones will host a Learn To Run Group. Yes they want you to shop in there store - small price to pay for what you get.
A Steel Worker wears special Shoes to support-protect his feet.
A Football player uses different shoes than a Baseball, Soccer, Basketball or Track Athlete.
So get fitted for good shoes is really the first step.
There is a supportive C25K Group in MFP.1
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