Am I too heavy to start c25k?

I could never manage to get into running honestly, though I've thought this program sounded interesting.

Another question though, I've had a severe ankle injury about a year ago (broke all three bones, dislocated, surgery/hardware the whole nine yards!), now I kind of look like I'm galloping if I try to run. Is it probably a safe bet to say that maybe I shouldn't try running? I know that everyone says that they hated it at first and then grew to love it, I don't know if I could be one of those people or not, but it is kinda tempting, especially with all of the successful stories on here and plus my two friends that I play roller derby with have done it too (and keep trying to talk me into running with them LOL). Right now I do the elliptical, swim, weights and play derby for exercise.

Thoughts?

I am another big guy who started running. I was 306 lbs when I ran (shuffled) those first few yards. Take it easy,and slow till you can move. It did hurt at first but believe me it really does get easier. I now can run a half marathon in under 2:30. Oh and I'm still over 200 lbs

You've gotten lots of replies but I just wanted to add another vote to go for it! I was 185 (at 5'6.5) when I started. Definitely not too heavy. Take it slow and you'll be fine.

I believe that you're NEVER too heavy. You just need to adjust to your current ability. If it feels hard, it's supposed to. If it feels impossible, then give yourself a break and walk as much as you need despite what the plan says.

Just don't stop. All of us start somewhere, or we spend our lives overweight and miserable. (yes, I've been there)

Good luck!

Not too heavy! I am 5' 10" and I was running a lot when I was around 220-230- when I get back there I will run more. Now I run a little for a few minutes at a time intermittent with walking. Its too hard on my knees still.

I am in my third week and have never been athletic.... ever! I am in a class taught by a former professional runner and now personal trainer as I seek my goal of my first 5K in October. Comparing others in my class and hearing how it's going for each of us I don't see that weight is an issue. First, go to a running store and let them evaluate your walk... don't skimp on shoes. I saw a person who was experiencing pain like shin splint but got the tight shoes and now the pain is gone.

I have more troubles with sore tight muscles. I had to learn which muscles to stretch and to stretch well (holding 30 seconds) after running in addition to several times that evening.... Esp getting the hip flexors, the muscle at the side of my thigh's, calves (front and back). I found a beginner yoga video that really helped me out with this. I also have a foam roller, but the instructor uses a basic rolling pin to work out some muscles.

I also found an instructional running video showing the CHI running form. I was concerned for my knees as I read alot of people deal with knee issues, I use this form in my practice runs but more importantly its the muscles out of balance that begins to cause the injury pain. So on off days I do a walking total body muscle movement workout... some days low impact because my muscles are sore or weak and some days higher impact. Cross training... make sure you don't over develop some muscles and under develop others.

Also, your speed.... it doesn't matter. I found a picture that said, "I run, slower than a turtle in peanuit butter, but I STILL RUN!" I liked it alot. It is only me against me and right now it' the practice workouts and making it fit within my schedule.

Good luck to you.

I currently weigh 191 lbs and my question is am I too heavy to start c25k? I am 5ft 8.

I just blogged about this yesterday (http://bit.ly/15BOTCs). No, you are not too heavy. Get started and believe that you can do it!

John

I started running less than 3 years ago and I weighed a little over 300 pounds, today depending on the day I weigh right at 200 and not only do I run 5k's, 10'k's, half marathons and duathlons I also win them in my age group. You can do this, do it right, start slow and work your way up. The biggest part of running is mental as much as physical so follow what your body is telling you not what your mind is telling you.

YOU GOT THIS, NO EXCUSES GO DO IT !!!!!!!

you can run, google "running for fat people" there are several good web sites that help, don't listen to the ones that say you cannot, I googled "running shoes for fat people" and found a site where the woman gives super good sound advice about what to wear, preventing thigh chafing, etc.

oh, and for the record, I am not saying I personally think 191 pounds with your height is fat- I am 6 inches shorter than you and 80 pounds heavier, but I am not going to let anyone else tell me what I can and cannot do!

When it comes to fitness, most people think that it's bad for you and somehow will hurt you. Most people are out of shape and overweight and have health problems because of it. Most people don't know much about most things and even less know anything about staying healthy. Don't listen to anyone...you can do anything you want to do.

Best quote ever.