New (overweight) runner needing tips!

ndblades
ndblades Posts: 233 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Hello! I have been mixing running / jogging into my walking routine, I would suppose similar to C25K. My issue is, I really don't know HOW to run! I need help with stride, breathing, consistency (I feel my form break down if I push too much, so when I feel that , I go back to walking -- is that good?)

The other issue, is I am still a good 45-50 pounds overweight, have a slight case of plantar fascitis, and am worried about damage to my knees. I maybe shouldn't run much until I loose more weight - but I get bored just walking - my legs want to move! I try to limit it to every other day . . .but sometimes I sneak a jog in!

My ultimate goal is next August do a triathalon and be able to RUN the 5k portion - I did one last year and walked it.

Thanks for your suggestions!

Replies

  • Brendajo510
    Brendajo510 Posts: 153
    For information on good running form:
    http://www.goodformrunning.com/

    Decent shoes are a must, and make sure they are not too tight. I'd say give it a go, but if you feel pain in the knees then stop or back off. You might consider icing your knee if you have an issue.
  • skydivelife
    skydivelife Posts: 83 Member
    HI!

    Buy a foam roller and use it on your calfs after every run. never ever ever skip your stretching routine. remember to stretch your feet as well. TAke it slow, take it steady, you'll get there.

    Look up the C25K program and start doing it. it's designed to give adequate rest periods and help you learn your form.


    good luck!

    Trainer nate


    wellfitlife.me
  • jonchew
    jonchew Posts: 239 Member
    (I feel my form break down if I push too much, so when I feel that , I go back to walking -- is that good?)

    The other issue, is I am still a good 45-50 pounds overweight, have a slight case of plantar fascitis, and am worried about damage to my knees. I maybe shouldn't run much until I loose more weight - but I get bored just walking - my legs want to move! I try to limit it to every other day . . .but sometimes I sneak a jog in!

    Sounds to me like you're listening to your body... this is good. It's OK to walk if you feel the need to walk, it's OK not to push to the point of pain, also. Think about it - YOU'RE A RUNNER!!!!

    Being sedentary most of my life, It took me a long while to wrap my brain around this revelation, but it's true, I'm a runner too - isn't it great?? Keep up the good work, don't get discouraged - it only gets better!
  • walkdmc
    walkdmc Posts: 529 Member
    You may also want to look into Jeff Galloway's walk:run program and the book, Run Your Butt Off. Both are good programs for beginning runners.

    If you have a smartphone, download an app for your training program. The C25K and Jeff Galloway have good apps that allow you to use the phone's GPS as well as the music library.

    Have fun!
  • Brendajo510
    Brendajo510 Posts: 153
    never ever ever skip your stretching routine. remember to stretch your feet as well. TAke it slow, take it steady, you'll get there.

    I think stretching before running can be controversial. I'd recommend doing some research before stretching before running.
    http://healthland.time.com/2011/02/18/skip-the-stretch-before-running-—-it-doesnt-prevent-injuries/
    http://runningtimes.com/Article.aspx?ArticleID=19229
    http://sweatscience.com/stretching-is-bad-for-power-and-endurance-running/
    http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/02/sports/playmagazine/112pewarm.html
  • heytherestephy
    heytherestephy Posts: 356 Member
    Why hello there! Running is addictive, I'm afraid you'll find haha.

    I was about 60lbs overweight when I started out just like you, running intervals. Just remember to pace yourself. If things start to hurt beyond normal muscle soreness from actually working muscles you haven't used in ages, stop/slow down and take a break.

    Have fun running! It's awesome!

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