I can't run.

megbee617

That's pretty much all I wanted to say. I exercise 30-45 minutes 3x week. I can do the elliptical or arc trainer at a medium-high intensity for this amount of time no problem, and often will follow up with a short walk (10-15 mins) to loosen up after.

But as soon as I try to run, even jog, I just. Can't. Do it. I will get this terrible pain (usually on my right side) within 1-2 minutes of jogging, even when I stretch beforehand. I don't know why this is so hard, when the other machines are so easy. Even when I "train" to try and build up my endurance, I can do 20 mins switching between walking and jogging, but instead of feeling good and refreshed after, my body really hurts, I have trouble walking, and it doesn't feel like I got a "good" workout.

I want to take up running. It's easy; you can do it anywhere. I'm very frustrated that the one type of exercise I really WANT to do is so hard for me.

Tips?

jagi410

Go to a running store and make sure your shoes are best suited to your foot and walk/run style. Sometimes going to a stability shoe will make a huge difference.

All4Me2014xx

Have you tried the Couch to 5K? That starts you off very slowly and builds it up to 3.1 miles by the end of it.

acbraswell

How is your core strength? I had problems when I first started running and did core strengthening (pilates is great). That helped with the pains in my side. Good luck!

sunnyskies1780

Running is hard, and takes a totally different kind of effort than anything else. Choose an 8 week program that incorporates walking and running and slowly make your way through.

Some tips though:

Get fitted for shoes.
Start running, then run slower, still slower. Even if you can walk faster run as slowly as possible to train your body and your lungs, if you can't hold a conversation you are going to fast. Focus on time, not distance. The distance will come.
Keep going with a program, repeat weeks if needed and at some point along the way you will start to enjoy it, breathing will be easier and it will feel good (sometimes) :-)

Running is great, there is always a challenge but you can't just jump in.

AmyRhubarb

If you want to start running, check out the c25k program (Couch to 5k) - you can find it online, and there are lots of free apps you can put on your phone or iPod (I used c25kFREE by Zen Labs). It's an 8-9 week program that takes you through intervals of walking and running three days a week, slowly building you up to being able to run for 30 minutes without stopping.

I started it at the age of 43 after avoiding running m whole life, and it worked like a charm. Over two years later, I'm still running and enjoying it - if I can do it, anyone can! :drinker:

The key is to go slow and build up slowly. Running is different than any other activity - I was a walker, still am, and could brisk walk all day long, but running was completely different. Make sure you get good shoes, getting fitted at a good running store if possible, but at least a newer pair that's in good shape to start with, download the app, and get started. Just stick to the program - if it seems easy at first, stay with it - three days a week, and stay with the allotted time. Going slow helps avoid injuries and helps assure that you'll stick with it.

And once you get started, look for a fun 5k race in your area that is happening after you'll be done with the program, and register for it! Nothing motivates you to stick with it like a race on the horizon. And a 5k is a fun way to celebrate what you've accomplished.

Good luck!

chivalryder

Yes.

Good shoes and a good, slow buildup program are vital to getting into running pain-free and without injury.

if the good shoes don't work and you still have pain, consider seeing a pedorthist.

One big reason why you might be having problems running is because the arc trainer and elliptical are very good at developing your cardiovascular system. That's why walking isn't enough of a workout for you - your cardiovascular system is too good for it. However, they don't do anything for your musculo-skeletal system which is vital for running and is very, very solw to develop.

ew_david

Yes you can.

Make sure you have the right shoes. Start slow and build up your endurance. Those who fail usually go balls to the wall and end up injured, burnt out, and quit.

goodfido

Are you eating before you work out? If so, that could cause the pain in your side. Are you properly hydrated? If not, that too could be the cause.

Otherwise, I'd suggest what other posters are saying, get good running shoes as well as the Couch to 5K may be a good place to start to build up the endurance.

Capt_Apollo

try warming up, not stretching... http://www.nerdfitness.com/blog/2012/01/09/warm-up/

sabified

I used to think this too. Luckily, I found out it wasn't true at all... and I'm willing to bet it's the same for you.

One thing I will say- it's much easier to start running outside than on a treadmill. Actually, I'll say a few: Don't worry at all about speed. It's ok if you walk faster than you jog when you're first starting- it's all about getting the motion down... and trust me, even at a slow pace you will still feel the burn much more than when you walk. Start small and work your way up... walk for a bit then run for what you can, rinse and repeat. C25K (Couch to 5k) is a great tool - didn't do it myself but afterwards I wished I had.

Going to a running store or looking up info online for proper running form is very helpful as well... that may help with the side stitches. Cross training (doing body weight or free weights) are great for helping you get better at running as well.

SkinnyGirlCarrie

Go to a running store and make sure your shoes are best suited to your foot and walk/run style. Sometimes going to a stability shoe will make a huge difference.

This! I didn't get fit per se but knew that Asics are a good shoe for me so splurged on a higher end pair and it made a world of difference. That and running at a slower speed, I used to think on the treadmill I should run at 5 or above and just couldn't but when I dropped down to 4.5 and a jog it worked wonders. As I improved I could up my speed. Now I can run straight for 20min+ and I don't hurt anymore! FWIW sometimes about 5-10min into my jog my body still rebels and doesn't want to run but if I push through that for a few minutes I generally feel fine as my body adjusts.

JustSomeEm

Google 'running form'. It's possible that your side stitches are caused because you're running sort of 'hunched over' and tensed up. I did this at first, and when I figured out my posture was causing me issues, it was like a light went off, and running came much easier. Try running with your shoulders relaxed. Lots of people tense up when they run. Don't do that, it'll cause stitches. Also, run SLOW at first. Try running at the same speed as (or just a little faster than) a walk. When you first start running, the slower the better. As you begin to run further, you will naturally speed up without any effort.

Couch to 5K is a FANTASTIC program. Just remember, run SLOW. Think you're running slow enough? Slow down some more. You should be able to hold a conversation while you run. When I'm on a slow run, I'll actually sing along with the music (Ok, so more of a 'huff/puff' along, but you get the point). Download the C25K program, and follow along. Repeat sessions as necessary.

ANYONE can be a runner if they want it and enjoy it. You can do it. :flowerforyou:

115s

If you can't run, then don't. Wait until your body is at a weight where you might want to try it and if you still cannot, don't worry. Just walk.

_Zardoz_

I can do 20 mins switching between walking and jogging, but instead of feeling good and refreshed after, my body really hurts, I have trouble walking, and it doesn't feel like I got a "good" workout.

When you start running it does hurt and no you wont feel refreshed. It took months before I would feel refreshed as you put iy. Your body will take a while to adjust to the strains of running so you will ache for a while while the ligaments and tendons get used to it. It sounds to me like your trying to run too fast. You should be able to hold a conversation. Do not worry if your running pace is slower than your fast walk speed will come in time run slow. Also check that you have appropriate shoes. i would recommend any running shoes you get you only use them for that. Good luck

365andstillalive

That's pretty much all I wanted to say. I exercise 30-45 minutes 3x week. I can do the elliptical or arc trainer at a medium-high intensity for this amount of time no problem, and often will follow up with a short walk (10-15 mins) to loosen up after.

But as soon as I try to run, even jog, I just. Can't. Do it. I will get this terrible pain (usually on my right side) within 1-2 minutes of jogging, even when I stretch beforehand. I don't know why this is so hard, when the other machines are so easy. Even when I "train" to try and build up my endurance, I can do 20 mins switching between walking and jogging, but instead of feeling good and refreshed after, my body really hurts, I have trouble walking, and it doesn't feel like I got a "good" workout.

I want to take up running. It's easy; you can do it anywhere. I'm very frustrated that the one type of exercise I really WANT to do is so hard for me.

Tips?

Are you talking about stitches? Like pain in your sides/through your diaphragm that makes it hard to breath?

I've been running for a little over a month now, and I've gone from being able to jog for approximately 30 seconds before feeling like death was imminent and being all huffy and out of breath to being able to jog a full mile in 10-12 minutes depending on the day.

I used to get the pain in my side and tried doing some dynamic stretching or even a different workout before heading out and discovered for me that it's all in my breathing. If I run without music and focus on inhaling for about 3-4 strides and exhaling for about the same instead of gulping for air every step that it made a huge difference to that pain. I still get it on occasion when I push myself and run a new longer distance and lose that breathing regularity, but now it doesn't seem to set in until I've run/walked the second mile.

Running/jogging is definitely worth getting into because like you said, it can be done anywhere and with very little equipment (just a good pair of runners) but it does take a while to build into and while I really hated c25k and couldn't stick with the program, a ton of people I know have found success with it. I'm a competitive person, so for me it was heading out each day and trying to make it a little bit further before I had to walk, trying to walk a little less between burst of jogging, trying to finish in less time than the previous run etc. You've just got to find what works for you.

And remember, take it easy and do what you can! You don't want to injure yourself by doing too much before your body is ready.

megbee617

Wow! Thanks for all the tips everyone.

I think I should get fitted for a pair of proper running shoes. My current sneakers are less than a year old, and were about $100, but I've had several injuries to my right ankle as well, so maybe there is something wrong with my gait as well.

bostonwolf

That's pretty much all I wanted to say. I exercise 30-45 minutes 3x week. I can do the elliptical or arc trainer at a medium-high intensity for this amount of time no problem, and often will follow up with a short walk (10-15 mins) to loosen up after.

But as soon as I try to run, even jog, I just. Can't. Do it. I will get this terrible pain (usually on my right side) within 1-2 minutes of jogging, even when I stretch beforehand. I don't know why this is so hard, when the other machines are so easy. Even when I "train" to try and build up my endurance, I can do 20 mins switching between walking and jogging, but instead of feeling good and refreshed after, my body really hurts, I have trouble walking, and it doesn't feel like I got a "good" workout.

I want to take up running. It's easy; you can do it anywhere. I'm very frustrated that the one type of exercise I really WANT to do is so hard for me.

Tips?

You're wrong. You CAN run, you can only do it for a few minutes at a time. As you lose more weight and start ramping up the elliptical intensity because it's getting too easy, I bet you'll be able to run for a few more minutes, then a few more.

Just be patient and keep increasing the intensity as things get easier and it will come. It's going to take time, but you'll get there.

bostonwolf

That's pretty much all I wanted to say. I exercise 30-45 minutes 3x week. I can do the elliptical or arc trainer at a medium-high intensity for this amount of time no problem, and often will follow up with a short walk (10-15 mins) to loosen up after.

But as soon as I try to run, even jog, I just. Can't. Do it. I will get this terrible pain (usually on my right side) within 1-2 minutes of jogging, even when I stretch beforehand. I don't know why this is so hard, when the other machines are so easy. Even when I "train" to try and build up my endurance, I can do 20 mins switching between walking and jogging, but instead of feeling good and refreshed after, my body really hurts, I have trouble walking, and it doesn't feel like I got a "good" workout.

I want to take up running. It's easy; you can do it anywhere. I'm very frustrated that the one type of exercise I really WANT to do is so hard for me.

Tips?

Are you talking about stitches? Like pain in your sides/through your diaphragm that makes it hard to breath?

I've been running for a little over a month now, and I've gone from being able to jog for approximately 30 seconds before feeling like death was imminent and being all huffy and out of breath to being able to jog a full mile in 10-12 minutes depending on the day.

I used to get the pain in my side and tried doing some dynamic stretching or even a different workout before heading out and discovered for me that it's all in my breathing. If I run without music and focus on inhaling for about 3-4 strides and exhaling for about the same instead of gulping for air every step that it made a huge difference to that pain. I still get it on occasion when I push myself and run a new longer distance and lose that breathing regularity, but now it doesn't seem to set in until I've run/walked the second mile.

Running/jogging is definitely worth getting into because like you said, it can be done anywhere and with very little equipment (just a good pair of runners) but it does take a while to build into and while I really hated c25k and couldn't stick with the program, a ton of people I know have found success with it. I'm a competitive person, so for me it was heading out each day and trying to make it a little bit further before I had to walk, trying to walk a little less between burst of jogging, trying to finish in less time than the previous run etc. You've just got to find what works for you.

And remember, take it easy and do what you can! You don't want to injure yourself by doing too much before your body is ready.

Way back when I ran alot I was taught by a running coach that if you have a stitch to breathe OUT forcefully as the foot on the side of the stitch hits the ground. It does help a little bit.

cookieinbk82

I struggle with running too. I could run for maybe a minute until my legs hurt and my lungs feel like they are going to explode. I would love to be able to run long distances.

rml_16

Are you hydrated enough? Cramps usually are because of a lack of fluids, not a lack of stretching (and you should NEVER do static stretches with "cold" muscles).

MissHolidayGolightly

Have you tried running outside/on a track as well as on a treadmill? I can run outside but once I try it on a treadmill, I can only make it a minute or two tops before I want to quit.

365andstillalive

Wow! Thanks for all the tips everyone.

I think I should get fitted for a pair of proper running shoes. My current sneakers are less than a year old, and were about $100, but I've had several injuries to my right ankle as well, so maybe there is something wrong with my gait as well.

I will say, if you've had ankle injuries in the past, make sure they've had appropriate time to heal and monitor your ankle for swelling/warmth post run.

I had a terrible high ankle sprain over a year ago that pretty well took me out of well, life, for four months (off work, on crutches, no exercise etc), and I still have times where I come home post run and have to take an anti-inflammatory and then usually, a few days off running.

Ankle re-injuries really suck and until you have that proper pair of shoes, you're likely at a higher risk of re-injuring. Just listend to your body and be careful!

EmmieBaby

try warming up, not stretching... http://www.nerdfitness.com/blog/2012/01/09/warm-up/

^^ this

also as many have said, make sure you have the right shoes.

DebraYvonne

I am doing the couch to 5k app and I am very determined. I am slow but I am doing it and I am 51. You CAN do it. take your time.

smarionette

Wow! Thanks for all the tips everyone.

I think I should get fitted for a pair of proper running shoes. My current sneakers are less than a year old, and were about $100, but I've had several injuries to my right ankle as well, so maybe there is something wrong with my gait as well.

Running shoes can get 300-500 miles before they should be replaced depending on how heavy you are, how heavy you land, and your basic mechanics. It isn't a bad idea to pop into a running store every couple of months, try on the same model of shoes as the ones you currently have and feel the difference of new vs broken in until you get a feel for when your shoes need to be replaced. If the new shoe feels a TON better than the current shoe, replace, if it feels just a little bit better, keep the current.

The pain in your side sounds like side stitches. Stretching and warming up don't really do much for them, running slower does. As people have suggested C25K is a fantastic program to get you started with a slow build up which will help. At first your running may be real slow. My running spirit animal is a turtle, but I get it done. I get a lot of it done. I'm debating upgrading him to a turtle on roller skates, but that is off topic.

Injuries to your ankle. If you seriously want to start running you need to address these injuries, preferably with some professional help. See if you can get an evaluation with a physical therapist for guidance, and if need be a couple of visits to learn proper movements to stretch and strengthen the area. Problems with ankles often shoot up into your knee, hip and back because they throw everything out of alignment. Going back to the shoes thing above, you may find that after proper healing of your ankle you require different shoes as you mechanics will have changed.

runningforicecream

I thought so, too.

I used to not be able to run even 200m and was literally the last in every running event in school. Heck, even just 2-3 months ago I couldn't run a full minute. Now I am running more than 10km every other day.

C25k is a great program to start you off. Also, since you're new to running, run slow. Like really slow. That usually helps.

PaytraB

Have you tried the Couch to 5K? That starts you off very slowly and builds it up to 3.1 miles by the end of it.

This.
I never thought I would be able to run. I tried and tried and always failed. But C25K made me a runner. It starts you running 1 minute intervals and leads you to running a 30 minute session.

I agree with the poster above who suggested having your feet fit at a running store. Good shoes make all the difference.

Also, the other issue may be speed and/or time interval of running. If you're running too fast, you could be exhausting your body. A good test is to speak a short sentence out loud while running. If you huff, puff and pant your way through the sentence, slow down; you're going too fast.
You may be increasing your run intervals too quickly and too much as well. The C25K program keeps the increases do-able and maintainable. Have a look at the schedule on-line and see how the run session times compare to what you're doing. Adjust, if necessary.

Keep running. You can do it.

PetulantOne

Have you tried running outside/on a track as well as on a treadmill? I can run outside but once I try it on a treadmill, I can only make it a minute or two tops before I want to quit.

^This

AglaeaC

Please join this group:
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/forums/show/47-couch-to-5k-running-program-c25k-

You'll find a tonne of information as well as a daily check-in thread where people at all stages of the programme are reporting their running experiences.

dbmata

That's pretty much all I wanted to say. I exercise 30-45 minutes 3x week. I can do the elliptical or arc trainer at a medium-high intensity for this amount of time no problem, and often will follow up with a short walk (10-15 mins) to loosen up after.

But as soon as I try to run, even jog, I just. Can't. Do it. I will get this terrible pain (usually on my right side) within 1-2 minutes of jogging, even when I stretch beforehand. I don't know why this is so hard, when the other machines are so easy. Even when I "train" to try and build up my endurance, I can do 20 mins switching between walking and jogging, but instead of feeling good and refreshed after, my body really hurts, I have trouble walking, and it doesn't feel like I got a "good" workout.

I want to take up running. It's easy; you can do it anywhere. I'm very frustrated that the one type of exercise I really WANT to do is so hard for me.

Tips?

Sounds like conditioning.

Forget the well meaning but absolutely incorrect suggestions of going to buy some frilled out, stupid shoes from a disaffected clownnose at a running shop.

Make sure your form isn't the dog's breakfast, and work on conditioning. Running is impact, doing it with the wrong form will eff you up.

Step 1: Form.
Step 2: Form.
Step 3: Form.

Done.