Weight / start running

bcucbf
bcucbf Posts: 3 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Hi everyone !

I am currently considering the idea of trying the C25K program. Sounds like good news ?!
My point is that I have never been the sport kinda girl, and I have been overweight since I was a child.
Basically, I have never run more than 100 meters in my whole life...
I do a lot of cardio (mainly walking/cycling) but I am still around BMI 37 and I really don't want to get injured in the process.

Is there a weight / BMI I have to be at before I start running ? What was yours, by the time you started ?
Thanks for sharing !
Céline

Replies

  • littlebirdyxx
    littlebirdyxx Posts: 14
    I'm no running expert - just a beginner - but it might be an idea to walk it briskly and not run until you build up strength in your knees and lower your weight a little more. Running creates a lot of impact, and I have a few friends who started running when heavy, only to damage their knees because they hadn't strengthened them through walking, cycling and squats first.

    I started at a BMI of 20 (fast walking, then running a little, then walking again - until I could run more and walk less) but really I think it depends on how strong your knees are. If your legs are strong enough to carry your weight without suffering damage, then it's possible to run with a BMI over 30. If you have really weak legs, though, running at a BMI of 19 would be hard.
  • yogicarl
    yogicarl Posts: 1,260 Member
    I am starting out on C25K at a BMI of 30 - no problems.

    C25K starts out gently enough with a 5 minute walk warm up and run-walks to build up the strength and stamina slowly so I think you would be fine at BMI=37.
  • MeanderingMammal
    MeanderingMammal Posts: 7,866 Member
    I do a lot of cardio (mainly walking/cycling) but I am still around BMI 37 and I really don't want to get injured in the process.

    You're probably starting from a reasonable place, it's a progressive programme and you can easily repeat sessions if you feel the need.

    I'd say to go for it, but be very conscious of how you feel, stretch adequately and don't try to cram two days together.

    The first few weeks are ok shoe wise, but you'll probably want to get fitted for running shoes by the time you're on to week 6 or 7.

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