I want to run... but I'm too fat

Behavior_Modification

First of all, congratulations on your weight loss!

I am very jiggly and can relate. I have had physical & mental blocks about running, and although I'm not past them yet, I'm working on it. The physical - tight high waisted capris to hold everything in (i know this isn't the most comfortable but even a body shaper like you'd wear under a dress to smooth it all out works well) + a super sports bra. I'm a 40DDD and have 2 Enell sports bras. They are worth every penny. I still bounce but bouncing and jiggling are way different.

Good Luck!

77tes

Check out c25k, so that you have a guide to how to work up to running. If you can't afford a treadmill, and you aren't ready to try running outside, try running in place in the house. My daughter does this because she can't get out with her schedule, and she has had impressive results. She just puts in a favorite DVD, and runs in her bedroom. Maybe you could do that until you feel more confident.

You might also check out the blog "Hey Fat Girl." Here is a link to a post about the post: http://www.myfitnesspal.com/blog/Sarashouse/view/re-hey-fat-girl-358193

You have accomplished amazing things, and it sounds like you have become very strong. You have nothing to be embarrassed about.

Trechechus

I am very active in a family of not-so-active people. When I run and bike I go alone, but I use the time to get my thoughts together. It's sort of just "me time." If someone wants to come with me, they are always welcome, but those instances are few and far between.

You said you are good at walking now, which is awesome! When I started running, I had to start slowly. Go for a walk and add in some running steps. Then run for 5 minutes without stopping. Then 10. Then 20. Etc. You'll get there.

I used to HATE running. Now I get all antsy when I don't go.

sharmaferrugia

First of all ...... GREAT JOB !!!!!!!! You should be so incredibly proud of yourself for coming so far and sticking with it !!

BUT ..... I have an alternative to running that I turned to with my best friend who has bad knees. CYCLING...... I'm tellin you, you want a great workout ? You wanna feel like you are a kid again? Cycling is the answer ...... Find some hills and a friend. Grab a good bike off Craigslist and try it. It truly is amazing and a great way to burn fat and build muscle while having fun... go figure.... exercise that is FUN !!!

Good Luck !!

JESSJESJ

great job! that is a fantastic amount of weight to lose!

I just saw this the other day...http://www.myfitnesspal.com/blog/Sarashouse/view/re-hey-fat-girl-358193, perhaps it will give you a different point of view!

ahonke

Congratulations on your amazing progress! You are truly an inspiration! I too feel like I am way too fat to run though my dream is to do just that. Friends are quite supportive and a lot of my skinnier friends have suggested the walk for 5 minutes, jog for 1 minute and slowly build up the amount of time jogging. I do it on a treadmill in an empty gym with my Ipod blaring energetic music. My fantasy is to run down the jogging/biking paths in my neighborhood with my dog but it's not safe and I'm still too embarassed. I have only been on my weightloss journey for 6 months, lost 20 pounds but still weigh just over 200 lbs. There's still a lot of jiggling but one day you will see me on those paths!

DrBorkBork

I was 220-230 when I started running. I think if you work with a doctor and keep close eye on one's joints and stuff, you're not too heavy to run! Start off easy. Try couch to 5k or Jeff Galloway's run-walk-run program. You can do it!

furby1

Firstly, you are inspiring and please be very very proud of what you have so far achieved

I was 230lb when I joined MFP and due to multiple health issues have not exercised in years and was afraid to go for a walk incase I went so far and found I couldn't get back. At the same time I joined the site I joined the gym under a scheme run for disabled/unhealthy people.

For 12 weeks I have an instructor who monitors me and I have the gym sessions at a reduced rate.
I started out just using the treadmill for 10 mins at a snail pace and on a flat level. I tried using a couple of the weight lifting machines but again at a very low level. 10 weeks later and I now spend 2 sessions of 15 mins on the treadmill at 4.8km pace with an incline, I am pulling 30 kg on one of the weights which i believe is reasonably good, I have just started using the rowing machine and am loving every minute of it. I also bought myself a second hand exercise bike and have built that up to 30 min a day which equates to about 5 miles . I am female and 61years old and as I said have many health issues but I feel great.

While I have so far only lost 16lb I have lost 5 inches of my hips and 4 from my waist, by the way I also started pilates and that is such a gentle exercise but has helped my posture so much......so if like me you are worried about going out and you can afford it go to the gym. It may be that they have a similar scheme in your area, ask your doctor......that way you can up your speed level in safety until you feel comfortable enough to go out and do it....and i am 100% sure that with your determination you will do....good luck

driversed12

OMG! You are awsome! It's really funny but, I so feel you. I just started this attempt at losing again. I see people out running, and it looks like fun. I would love to be able to do that but, have a hard time walking do to my knees. I too have been getting in the pool everyday and trying to do exercises to help my stiffness. I don't know where you're at but, wish you were close by.You give me hope. I'm an all around big lady. I'm 6'2 and 357 lbs. I'm always the biggest one in whatever I do. Any exercises you can pass on , would be great. The loose skin on my tummy and inter thigh is going to be my biggest problems. I'm 58 and not giving up. I just know you'll find a buddy out there. Hope to hear from you. Keep up the good work. It's taken me a long time to realize not, to worry about those other people. At least your out there trying. Bless you!

DakotaKeogh

You have done an amazing thing for yourself and everyone around you who sees your example. Be proud of yourself. I really have no advice on running. I really can't as I have one knee with the cartilage worn completely through. But, I would offer a suggestion that your try biking as an alternative. It can be just as much of a workout without the associated injury from the impact of running. And with a stationary bike you can do it indoors year round.

mumi

I was 210 when I started C25K. I was embarrassed to be out running but after a while I started to feel more confident. I teach in the neighbourhood I live (run) in so I see lots of people:(. I am on week 6 and I feel like everyone else just working out:). I go very slow and stop if I need to, maybe try the program and see how it feels or just start by trying to run 30 sec intervals. Good luck, you have come a long way, you are doing great

FelicityEliza36

I don't believe that if you are "too fat" you cant run. Have you ever watched The Biggest Loser or Extreme Make Over Story: Weight loss Edition? They kick a** running.

I am 265 lbs now & I posted a similar thread but mine was "Running at 265" wish I could find it to give you the link. Everyone gave me such POSITIVE advice and self confidence to do it.

Right now I have been walking 3 mph on the treadmill then I kick up the speed to about 3.5 and jog / run. I can do this now for 2 minutes tops. So I do walk/run intervals. Which they say is the best for you.

Dont worry about how slow you go. Or how far you make it. Just do it. You are moving your body and doing things you never did before and that is all that matters.

YOU CAN DO THIS no matter how big you are, just be careful of injury!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

anrieken

I think walking with your dog is a great way to get you BOTH in shape. I definitely think you should keep to walking for a while due to the impact stress on your joints from jogging at your weight. At least long enough to give your joints a chance to get introduced to the impact and long enough for you to be able to assess whether or not your joints can handle it yet. As for feeling self-conscious, I'd say don't worry too much about what other people think (Easier said than done, I know.). The people who will think poorly of you are vain *kitten*, and the rest of us are inspired by your determination and dedication. Seriously, when I see someone your size in the gym I feel inspired to keep pushing myself to get healthy and fit.

Also, you can use the elliptical to step up the intensity of your workouts if you feel like the pool just isn't doing it for you anymore. I hate running and I was really hard on my joints when I was younger so I avoid the treadmill at all costs. I love the elliptical because I feel like it really challenges my fitness without stressing out my joints. The fact it's not an impact activity also means that your fat won't jiggle quite as much so that might help with your self-consciousness. Either way, keep up the good work!

AmythistRae

I do not know if this has been suggested yet and if it has sorry for the repeat..I have not read everything yet..but have you heard of couchto5K....and you are very inspiring...I am looking to run too...hugs...

runzalot81

I think it's great that you really want to do it! You must be a born runner. I didn't know this about myself until I was 22. I just dreamed about it like you for a long time.

1. Talk to your doctor. Most folks are surprised to discover that they aren't too fat to run. They just need good equipment.
2. Join a gym and use the treadmill if safety is an issue. Or check your local Craigslist for a used one if you have the room in your home.
3. Get professionally fitted for shoes.
4. Get some good clothes. There's another thread somewhere about good sports bras for big boobies.
5. Pick out a great beginner's program. I started with one minute at a time. I'm sure you could start with even less if you needed to.
6. Don't worry about all the other body parts bouncing all over the dang place. Really, they're just having a good time and coming along for the ride. Some of them will get tired and disappear

tship74

Get a stationary bike. You can build up your wind and it will take pressure of your knees and hips until you are ready to run.

katejkelley

First of all, congratulations on all you've achieved! You are an inspiration to everyone! Now about the running. But basically, you start with walking. Walk 30 minutes. Then you start to add running, one minute at a time. For instance, walk two minutes, run one, for the entire 30 minutes. Gradually, you add more running and less walking until you can run the entire 30 minutes. Once you can run that long, you just add distance/time to your run. Anyone who has accomplished what you have can certainly take on this challenge! Best of luck to you!

WendyTerry420

Start by doing short intervals. Walk for a few minutes, then jog for about thirty seconds, then back to walking. Log your exercise each day and gradually increase the amount of jogging that you do. Eventually, you'll work your way up. The main thing is to be consistent. Water exercise is excellent too. Keep moving and logging your food and exercise. It takes a lot of patience, but you'll get there. I promise! :happy:

monicalosesweight

I think cycling or walking is fine. I know that running for me is just too painful. My knees don't like it. I suspect that depending on your weight, it's not considered good for you until you get the weight off. Even then, too much running can cause damage. I wouldn't worry about it.

There are tons of ways to exercise and have fun. Personally, I think biking is more enjoyable. The bouncing of running just bothers me and the pavement is way too hard.

katiedid1226

Congratulations on your hard work & huge success!

I am being lazy and not reading the prior comments, so forgive me if this is something you've heard already.

I didn't want to injure my joints so I waited until I lost X amount before running. In the mean time, I used the Couch to 5K program while walking instead of running. I just walked faster when it called for running.

I have an ipod so I put the app on the ipod which takes away the looking at a stop watch.

It has worked for me, and I was back to running after I lost some weight.

Good luck!

kimpein

OMG Kenda You are an inspiration !! I am also not runner either but what I do is after walking to warm up I jog to a distance I can see ( a mailbox) and after a while I was able to run just a little farther . I still cannot run far but I see little improvements. If you are concerned about your saftey when waliking and don't have a gym membership try to go to a local park or a school with a track. Good luck you are doing great and forget about mean people !!!

Kim Pein

Meloyelo2010

My suggestion would be wearing a sports bra ( I wear 2 so I know the girls are not going to escape). Then get compression shirt or tank and compression pants. This will help keep everything where it all needs to be. If you want to run then you should. There becomes a point when you have to not care what others think of you because you are doing this for your health. Congrats on your weight loss so far.

This was me I'm in the high 200's but wanted to be a runner. I have many friends who run long distances and it's inspiring but it gave me anxiety to think about. For a few reasons I started looking at running blogs (I found Runs for Cookies), I went to get my feet measured properly and invested in a new pair of shoes (which I now hate. Oops.) I was closing up a support group I lead a few months ago when we were doing a go round of "What are you going to do to take care of yourself this week?" And, as group leader I answer as well. I said "I'm going to get my shoes on and go for a run tonight."

And, following my word I got changed as soon as I got home, stepped out of my house and walked for 5 minutes before running for probably less then 30 seconds. But, I continued the intervals of running a short distance and walking the rest. I tried Couch to 5k but found it too much pressure to follow. I've been on a good schedule ever since of just getting out and doing it. I feel comfortable in my neighborhood as well as in the gym (YMCA) I have a membership at though. You mention not feeling safe, so, as others suggested I'd looking into running clubs in your area for safety in numbers.

And, as far as the wiggle and jiggle it sucks but it well get better get the compression clothing and double up on the sports bras. It's a different mindset for sure but it's worth it. I'm still working on my endurance but I can run for a good 5 minutes without stopping (and, my run is probably someone's fast walk) You do you and try different things to see what works for you.

musiche

Hi!

I was an obese kid my whole life. My biggest was 265+, and I always hated running with a passion. When I lost 80+ pounds, I did it with a lot of walking on the treadmill with an incline (that I kept increasing more and more), and the stationary bike and eventually the elliptical. After a few years of keeping the weight off (and still being 30 pounds over my max BMI but fit and healthy), I decided to take up running last year. I started out by increasing my workouts on the elliptical as this is the closest cardio machine to running, and eventually started jogging on the treadmill. I took it REALLY easy and slow. I did the following:

- 3 days per week on the treadmill at a slow jog - 1 min jogging, 1-2 minute walking: repeat for 30 minutes

After the first week or so, I started jogging for 1min 30sec and resting for 1 minute.

After a week or two of that, I was jogging for 2 minutes and resting for one.

After a week or two of that, I was jogging 3 minutes and resting for one.

My jogging speed started out at about a 5.5mph and I upped to to almost a 6 after many months.

Then jogging for 5 minutes resting for one, and after that I was able to push it to the full 30 minutes - which is the HARDEST workout I've ever done. And BY FAR the most rewarding - physically. I grew some great lean muscle, lost a lot of stomach weight and sculpted my *kitten* and legs amazingly.

The thing is this: I started this in March, and by August, I started getting a pain in my right hip on impact. At this point I was running every day for at least half an hour. I became obsessed with running, I LOVED it. I researched running pains and learned that many runners develop pain because one leg can be shorter than the other, or from just plain running wrong. Tight hamstrings can cause a big strain on the lower back and pull your spine out of alignment, aggravated by the high impact of running. At the point I was at physically last year, I was at my peak - even still, I was above my suggested BMI by more than 20 pounds, though I do have a lot of muscle for a female and I am what they call 'big boned'. No matter the reason for the added weight, running at 190 pounds is going to strain your body a lot more than if I were at 165 like I'm supposed to be.

Running is awesome, I love it, but I can't do it anymore. It taxes my body too much and I have permanent joint issues now. I developed osteoarthritis which was incredibly painful and debilitating (I am taking glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM for that now and it really helps, as well as exercising). Exercise is so critical for managing arthritis - the the RIGHT KIND of exercise. I give my all on the elliptical now - it is an intense, full body cardio workout that is also LOW IMPACT on my joints, which is perfect. I do everything BUT run. I have only recently been able to start including some plyometrics into my workouts (plyo being anything involving jumping) because I could still feel the pain on impact up until a month ago despite having improved drastically.

I guess what I'm trying to say, is TAKE YOUR TIME getting to where you want to be. Work your way up in small increments, don't just start full out running, especially with added weight. You are potentially just going to hurt yourself and then halt your progress and set yourself back. It's been a year now for me, and I'm still working my way back to where I was, and I think I'm almost there. But, will I run again? No, probably not. I actually have permanent damage that prevents me even being able to, thankfully it's not permanent pain. I honestly do miss running, and if I ever can [safely] run again, I will try, but it's not worth the risk if I feel I can't.

Be patient with yourself and your weight loss journey. Swimming is a great idea and if it's working for you, stick with it! You are doing your body a world of favours by keeping gravity from crushing your bones and joints and taxing your body more than the human body should be. Get some more weight off with what is working and maybe get into walking, and then maybe the treadmill with an incline and from there, the elliptical and if you master those and take some more weight off, then maybe starting a jog/walk interval regime might be a suitable course of action.

You have the rest of your life to find different ways to exercise and keep it interesting. Sometimes, less is more, so don't get ahead of yourself.

jshort152

Start on a treadmill, go with a high incline if possible of 3.5 or so and keep it at a 3.0 mph pace for 15-20 min, if you can't do that, adjust the mph and the time a little, hope this helps! Let me know if you need any other advice!

Jesse Short
ISSA Certified Personal Trainer

Lisha_R

Great job so far. I have not started running yet. I am now 249lbs and am still walking. I plan on waiting until I loose 40 more pounds before I start. I feel the stress on my knee's and ankles would be too much. With walking I get my heart rate up and sustained. Walking in water is a great way to exercise and minimize the stress on your joints. If you want to run try what a lot of other people suggested walk then short run then walk again. Couch to 5 K is a great program. You do not have to finish it in 9 wks. Go at your own pace if needed.

Good shoes and sports bra are what I need too.

VanessaHeartsMasr

If the only reason you aren't running is because you are afraid that people are looking at your jiggle, you know what I say? Screw them!! Girl you have EARNED it!! You inspire me!!

KrazyAsianNic

I feel the same way as your topic subject. I don't run yet, but tomorrow (Monday) I'm starting the C25K. I heard it's a really nice way to get into it.

MeBeEmmDee

I need a Couch to Couch-to-5K app. LOL

HelenDootson

I have been trying to run since about 280lbs, I have the C25K app and I repeat the weeks until I can do them without feeling like I am going to die and then I move on to the next one. it does not matter if you do a week once or 10 times, and you will find something you feel like you are going backwards, but stick with it, know that the smiles you get from the other runners are positive encouragement not them being smug, go for it and ENJOY RUNNING xx

valskis

I also have been wanting to run but am in no shape for it. I have tried walking for about 4 minutes then running for a minute. Then after a couple of weeks of this walking 3 minutes & running 2 minutes. It just didn't work. Plus I am very self conscious and felt like I was being stared at.

So what I do, is I jog in place to my Wii Sport free run. You can run for as long or as short as you like. The shortest is a 3 minute run that I do very well, and I have worked up to a 10 minute jog. I want to do the 20 minute next.

I also know that running in the pool is really good for you, as you know. Running can be very hard on the joints.

Good luck in your weight loss, and keep up the good work.