Is running really something I can do?????

ExplorinLauren

I've been interested in running for some time now.
I feel its great cardio... no one can beat runners legs ( My legs have always been a great feature of mine, I can't imagine them being even better! But I would love to try!)
My husband is a former track and field person... loves to run! He is also looking back into running again and misses his former state, and I think this is something we could do together.
Problem is I can barely run for 1 minute straight. I've never enjoyed running... EVER.:noway:
Even when I was at my skinniest and ultimate hottttness, my boobs got in the way, I couldn't breathe, and my calf's hurt :laugh:
I know and believe that ANYONE can run... you just have to build it up...
But problem 2... I smoke. I am stopping in Sept. Its a must for some of the things I want to do, and it will DEF happen.... but I would love to start running NOW... and building now. I'm scared to stop smoking now,because I am still losing weight...and changing lifestyles is something I'm all about, but I can't change every single thing at once. I chose MFP and my fitness 1st, smoking 2nd. Is there a way I can start running now and be successful now? Should I wait? Are there any smokers/runners? LOL I'm guessing not. I would just like some advice.. But please don't turn it into a "smoking is bad for you topic" I know it is... I've accepted it, and I'm willing to change it... so we don't need to beat up Lauren because she smokes Please

Jynus

couch 2 5k

redhousecat

I know many folks have had success with the Couch to 5k program.

My husband is a runner and he finally talked me into running with him. Obviously, I don't run as far or as fast, but I'm trying to at least get out there and do it. I joined a running club that offered a beginners program and it has helped me tremendously. I only care to run 5k races and nothing more. A running club will offer all kinds of training from beginner to triathlons.

Personally, I'm a cyclist. I enjoy that much, much more.

scottb81

You can smoke and start running but it will be harder than if you didn't smoke.

I recommend you stop the tobacco and move to an electronic cigarette if you don't want to completely quit. You still get the nicotine but remove all the poisons. It replicates a normal cigarette closely enough that stepping tobacco is easy and weight gain not a problem.

mimstero

I never in my life believed that I would be a runner, but after doing it for over 4 years now, I think I am. I started by doing intervals, and then lengthening the amount of time I ran versus the walking part. Later, I was happy doing 3-4 miles every other day, and then I was running more like 4-6 each time. Miles that is. Almost two years ago, I watched as my brother completed a half marathon, and I also saw all of the other people, of all shapes and sizes, complete this race. I vowed then that I would do the next Denver Rock and Roll half marathon. Well, I trained for it, and I completed it last October. I am not very fast, but I did run the whole way. Then, I also completed my second half marathon, the Colorado Run, last May. I was five minutes faster.
I really still wouldn't say that I am a runner, but I do run so that I can keep my weight under control and so I can eat more. I get up at 4:30 four days a week to do about six miles.
To keep me in pretty good shape, I have decided to do one half marathon a year, and my husband and brother, have promised to do next year's Colorado Run.
Anything's possible

Shannota

C25K. I am at 269 pounds and am starting week 4 tomorrow. I don't smoke, but having this extra weight is probably like a "normal" person running while carrying another "normal" person on her back. Worth a shot anyway.

Good luck!

ExplorinLauren

couch 2 5k

Looking into it

ExplorinLauren

I know many folks have had success with the Couch to 5k program.

My husband is a runner and he finally talked me into running with him. Obviously, I don't run as far or as fast, but I'm trying to at least get out there and do it. I joined a running club that offered a beginners program and it has helped me tremendously. I only care to run 5k races and nothing more. A running club will offer all kinds of training from beginner to triathlons.

Personally, I'm a cyclist. I enjoy that much, much more.

running club?? good idea

ExplorinLauren

You can smoke and start running but it will be harder than if you didn't smoke.

I recommend you stop the tobacco and move to an electronic cigarette if you don't want to completely quit. You still get the nicotine but remove all the poisons. It replicates a normal cigarette closely enough that stepping tobacco is easy and weight gain not a problem.

I tried it... burned my lips lol ...

ExplorinLauren

C25K. I am at 269 pounds and am starting week 4 tomorrow. I don't smoke, but having this extra weight is probably like a "normal" person running while carrying another "normal" person on her back. Worth a shot anyway.

Good luck!

I'm really thinking this is the way to go!!

nataliefamily3

Bump for suggestions

fhamwey

Couch to 5 k is great and run all you want and smoke. I had someone say to me once something like, are you kidding, you run and then smoke. That is horrible. I told them, it is better that I run and smoke than dont run at all and I kept on doing both. Any way, you won't want to smoke anymore once you really get to running. It will be harder to get where you want to be while smoking but once you start, hopefully the running will turn you off from the smoking. I am a former smoker now. I can't imagine smoking and running anymore but I still love the smell of someone else smoking! Just go for it! It will help with weight and if you do (which you will) eventually quit, you will have a great exercise so you won't gain weight from quitting.

ExplorinLauren

Couch to 5 k is great and run all you want and smoke. I had someone say to me once something like, are you kidding, you run and then smoke. That is horrible. I told them, it is better that I run and smoke than dont run at all and I kept on doing both. Any way, you won't want to smoke anymore once you really get to running. It will be harder to get where you want to be while smoking but once you start, hopefully the running will turn you off from the smoking. I am a former smoker now. I can't imagine smoking and running anymore but I still love the smell of someone else smoking! Just go for it! It will help with weight and if you do (which you will) eventually quit, you will have a great exercise so you won't gain weight from quitting.

Thank you so much for posting this!! That is kind of what I am hoping for!! That I will get so into running... I will get annoyed with smoking and really truly WANT to quit because its hindering me ... Thank you

julieh391

I did couch to 5k and LOVED it. I started at 219lbs one month after having a baby. I couldn't believe my progress. Just make sure you take it slow. I thought I was doing everything right, but I'm currently unable to run because of a possible stress fracture in my ankle (waiting for test results.) I can't wait to be able to run again and am amazed that I feel that way. I love it!

Vonwarr

Also doing C25K... works great, and is easy. Free iOS/Android apps are available which make following the directions really easy.

Healthy_4_Life2

I never thought I would be able to jog/run if my life depends on it. Until I discovered C25K app. I am on week 10 and jogged 30 minutes straight yesterday. This is from a person that couldn't even jog 2-3 minutes this time last year. YOU can do it

cloud2011

My husband and I are starting C25k in the next week. I was surprised that he said he wants to run a 5k in the fall. I don't like running at all, but I pretty much love sports and competing, so we're going to try it together. Plus if you run, you can start your kids later on.

AmyRhubarb

Another vote for c25k! I was never a runner - hated it. Switched from basketball to volleyball in high school because there was less running. Always joked that I didn't run unless I was being chased - by something or someone I didn't want catching me.

For whatever reason (the challenge, the cardio, the fact that you can run almost anywhere) I decided back in January that I needed to give running a shot. My hubby was dubious, he's been telling me for years that i needed to add running to my fitness, to which I always replied with a firm "DO NOT!". Haha.

Started c25k with the free app from Zen Labs (c25kFREE) on January 31st. Followed it exactly, no extra days, no skipped days, even worked it around jury duty! I was determined. Finished it late March, ran my first 5k race on Memorial Day weekend and had a blast!

I'm still running - working on 10k now (needed another challenge), have my second 5k race coming up next weekend, and a Color Me Rad run in September. I ran over 5 miles this morning. I never ever would have believed I could do that had you asked me back in January. And I find that I'm actually liking it! If I miss a few days and happen to drive past my regular running route, I find myself longing to get out there and run.

Check out the program online - http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml

Then find an app to put on your phone or iPod. Set a start date, make sure you've got good shoes, make sure you warm up well and stretch out afterwards and go for it! :bigsmile: And then start looking down the road about 9 weeks or so for 5k races in your area, and sign up! A race on the horizon is great motivation to stick with the program.

Have fun!

LatinaGordita

The high you get from running, and the progress you will start to see in your running ability doing C25K - will make you want to give up your smoking addiction for your new running addiction. I never thought I would love running. I was one of those who hated walking or using the stairs, circled the parking lot a long time for the close spot. I never even tried to run to catch a bus.

Best wishes to you on your new healthy lifestyle!

KathieSwenson

c25k is the best program that you can possibly get into since you would be considered a beginner runner. I did it and I ran track in highschool. It slowly builds your endurance up so that you don't burn out on the first day. Im almost to week 5 so I run 5 min rounds right now and I LOVE IT> I can do it without breath hard and that has never been me.

suggestions. Dont think you are in shape enough to skip weeks. start with week one and go from there.
two: make sure you have running shoes before starting. Running shoes are designed so that as you run you get a better heal to toe movement. the are designed to provide shock absorbers and help with arch and foot protection. SO that is a must when you start a running program.

Also wear a heart-rate monitor so that you can track your calories. What i do is I test after each walk and after each run so that I can get a more accurate reading on calorie burned.

bli77

Hi you can definitely come to love running. I started running about a year ago much like you because I so wanted to feel the love of running everyone talks about. When I started, I downloaded training programs to learn to run from the internet but still didnt love it Lately though i think ive experienced that turning point where i can say i love it Some of the keys of success that I recommend:

-be patient
-increase your mileage by 1km each week. Build slowly...
- get proper running shoes and dual layer socks from a running specialty store. Avoids shin splints, blisters and injury
-for added motivation join a race in your area. So motivating running with others
-join a run club. Makes you accountable and a great way to be w others sharing similar running goals
-it's natural as competitive people to continue to track your run pace and time, but don't! It's one of the things that have helped me to love running. You're out to run because you love it. Remember you burn approximately 100 for every mile you run no matter how slow you run!

Good luck!

essjay76

Awwww! YES you can. I didn't know you smoke! No judgments here though! :drinker: But hey, you're here to get healthy and fit, and making the small changes everyday are what matters. You've already been doing a good job making changes in how you eat, plus consistently losing the weight, plus consistently logging. So yes, adding one more thing on top of that might be a daunting task.

With that said, I have never been a smoker myself, though I can understand how hard it must be to quit. BUT, you can still run and smoke! I don't condone or recommend it, just sayin. It can be done. I've known a few folks who've been able to bust out some speedy races and then smoke a cigarette at the finish line... literally! LOL

Couch to 5k is an AWESOME program. I wish it was around when I started running, because I had absolutely no clue how to get started. Plus, when I did start I was at my heaviest (around 25-30 pounds heavier, which is A LOT on my 4'10" body). And, I hated it at first because my boobs would get in the way, I felt awkward, and could barely breath and run for one minute straight. So it seemed like SUCH a huge task! But I attribute my weight loss to running ( I lost the 25-30 pounds almost 15 years ago, and have lost and gained a few pounds here and there, but never got to that old body because of the running). I should show you a pic of me before I started running... I totally understand hating it at first and worrying about the boobage thing!

PLUS, it sounds like an awesome way to spend some quality time with your hubby when you get to see him! You have the fitness base with your other exercise, you can definitely start running! Woot woot! :bigsmile:

love22step

Sure you can do it! I'm 60 and thought I might be too old, but, apparently, I'm not. I started C25K in mid-January and I've run two 5K races and a 10K race so far. Give it a try!

I never had the large breast problem, but sports bras can help with that. Another idea: my sister wrapped herself with ace bandages when she was running.

ExplorinLauren

Thank you all so much... I am completely inspired to do C25k. ... I've already downloaded the app! Now, just to go get some running shoes! I'm pretty nervous about shin splints. LOL... Shin pain has always freaked me out! I don't even like people touching my shins. Sigh... I guess I'll have to get over it! ... Any tips for this? How to prevent? How to help if you have them? Anything?

ExplorinLauren

Awwww! YES you can. I didn't know you smoke! No judgments here though! :drinker: But hey, you're here to get healthy and fit, and making the small changes everyday are what matters. You've already been doing a good job making changes in how you eat, plus consistently losing the weight, plus consistently logging. So yes, adding one more thing on top of that might be a daunting task.

With that said, I have never been a smoker myself, though I can understand how hard it must be to quit. BUT, you can still run and smoke! I don't condone or recommend it, just sayin. It can be done. I've known a few folks who've been able to bust out some speedy races and then smoke a cigarette at the finish line... literally! LOL

Couch to 5k is an AWESOME program. I wish it was around when I started running, because I had absolutely no clue how to get started. Plus, when I did start I was at my heaviest (around 25-30 pounds heavier, which is A LOT on my 4'10" body). And, I hated it at first because my boobs would get in the way, I felt awkward, and could barely breath and run for one minute straight. So it seemed like SUCH a huge task! But I attribute my weight loss to running ( I lost the 25-30 pounds almost 15 years ago, and have lost and gained a few pounds here and there, but never got to that old body because of the running). I should show you a pic of me before I started running... I totally understand hating it at first and worrying about the boobage thing!

PLUS, it sounds like an awesome way to spend some quality time with your hubby when you get to see him! You have the fitness base with your other exercise, you can definitely start running! Woot woot! :bigsmile:

Yep, I'm the smoker lol........
You are such an inspiration!!! You absolutely should share your pics from 25-30 lbs heavier! I can't imagine you any other way than you are right now!!!
I think I can do this!!! Thanks essjay

ExplorinLauren

Sure you can do it! I'm 60 and thought I might be too old, but, apparently, I'm not. I started C25K in mid-January and I've run two 5K races and a 10K race so far. Give it a try!

I never had the large breast problem, but sports bras can help with that. Another idea: my sister wrapped herself with ace bandages when she was running.

I will prob have to strap these babies down with an ace bandage haha... I've never found a sports bra that fits
Thanks for posting !!! Congrats on all you have done

sydnisd183

Good for you for wanting to do something positive for yourself. I used to be a smoker and I was able to weight train and do cardio. It was harder for me though. My body would want to go farther and more intensely but my lungs couldn't keep up.

I saw in and earlier post you made that you were annoyed with the smoking thing. This is also goooood.....I started getting annoyed and disgusted with the habit, the way I smelled, the expense, etc and I quit in December of 2006. I used Wellbutrin, some patches and gum my sister gave me that she didn't use, and the website www. quitnet dot com (sorry if i'm not supposed to put links). it's an online forum where other people who want to stay stopped go to for support.

I believe you CAN run, I would just do the damn thing and let everything else fall into place. Good luck on your journey, if you want to add me that's cool I can help support as I can relate to the whole smoking thingy

phtbtmgrl

You can always try TWO sports bras to contain the girls. It might make you sweat a bit more, but hey, sweat is good!

On the topic of smoking...It's a nasty habit and you should try to quit. I'm a smoker and I am trying to quit. It's hard to quit, but I have noticed that the more I run/workout, the less I want to smoke.

Good luck! You can do it!

toogsmom

Couch to 5 k worked for me~ When i started just a couple months ago i was 100 lbs overweight and could barely run a minute straight! It definitely wasnt always easy and a sacrifice at times since its hot REALLY HOT where we live and sometimes i end up running in the heat! Now in just a couple months i have lost 28 lbs and have completed 5ks and just the other day my first 10k, and now i am looking forward to start training for a 1/2 marathon! YOU CAN DO THIS!!!! Running is now my best friend and i am an addict! I find myself craving it on days that i havent ran! Such a great stress reliever too!!!

TinaS88

LoL. I was going to say C2K but I see that has clearly been covered. LoL

Ready2Rock206

Another vote for Couch to 5K - I don't even think adults should run and I'm doing it!