BODY HURTING

gonegonzo
gonegonzo Posts: 22 Member
edited November 26 in Fitness and Exercise
I've been trying to loose 25 pounds to start my recent returning to the F/P program . I'm way out of shape but am able to swim and do water exercises daily for 1 hr. a day . I'm telling myself that if I can loose 25 pounds that I will hike a 25 mile section of the Appatcian Trail . I'm trying to get in tune with walking to help get in shape for this as well but I'm finding my hips , legs and feet are hurting and not improving in this given 2 weeks . Has any of you experienced this when starting on the program ??? I need advice here .

Replies

  • Pastaprincess1978
    Pastaprincess1978 Posts: 371 Member
    yes definitely - I don't know what else to say but start slowly and know that as you drop the pounds and increase your muscle tone it'll start to ease.
  • firef1y72
    firef1y72 Posts: 1,579 Member
    Do you have a decent pair of trainers? Seriously if you're doing a lot of walking or running it's a good idea to get your gait analysed and buying decent footwear. A well fitted pair of trainers can make all the difference with pain in the feet, ankles, knees and hips.
  • heybales
    heybales Posts: 18,842 Member
    Walking what exactly - trails or concrete sidewalks?

    How much did you jump into from nothing for speed, frequency, and duration?
    Reduce 2 of those at minimum and build back up slower.
  • TavistockToad
    TavistockToad Posts: 35,719 Member
    Do you have decent walking shoes?
  • mbaker566
    mbaker566 Posts: 11,233 Member
    get fitted for shoes for what you're walking on and your gait
    also how fast did you get into this?
    what are you walking on?
    do you take rest days?
  • jonagolddreams
    jonagolddreams Posts: 39 Member
    Do you have any previous injuries? I have osteoarthritis in both knees, and I've discovered that if they aren't properly supported my gait changes and I have a lot of pain in my hips, too. I agree with the previous posters' suggestions to get a good pair of shoes if you don't have one. It really makes a big difference.

    Losing weight has really helped take pressure off of my joints, too. I lost about 30 pounds last year but have been stuck with the last 20 for some time, every few pounds that come off, I notice my joints aren't as sore after physical activity.

    I hope you find an answer that works for you.
  • BrianSharpe
    BrianSharpe Posts: 9,248 Member
    Depending on how long you've been sedentary for it's not uncommon to experience some discomfort when starting something new.

    One of the most important things is to start off easy and gradually work up time/distances/speed. If walking is your activity it's also important to have a good pair of walking shoes that fit properly and support your feet properly. Some of the discomfort may also be the result of weak hips/glutes - if you're an office worker who spends most of the day sitting count on some extra time to adapt to your new regime and consider adding some body weight strength (squats/lunges) and core work into your daily schedule - again start of with just a few and stick with a comfortable range of motion.

    The weight loss part is mostly a function of how much you eat. Eat a sensible, balanced diet with a modest caloric deficit and be patient. You don't get out of shape overnight nor will you get back into shape instantly.
  • bisky
    bisky Posts: 1,090 Member
    I started a diet and walking last fall . It was such a struggle. My hips hurt, I would have muscle cramps but I would walk about two miles (in one hour) and very slowly added distance. It seems like something was always hurting. I would walk anyways with my dogs and listening to music. I lost 40 lbs, I added swimming in addition to walking in the winter and then this spring added bicycling. Today I went on what would have been a long walk last fall and it was so easy. Just take it slow and then when it seems easy add extra mileage. Having a Fitbit or garmin is very useful in keeping track of your distance. Keep thinking how beautiful the Appalachian Trail will be. I have always wanted to do that.
  • lorrpb
    lorrpb Posts: 11,463 Member
    How far are you walking? It is best to start out with very short distances, even less that 1/4 mile if that's all you can do, and gradually build up distance and hills. After you can comfortably walk 3 miles on the sidewalk, start seeking out some rougher terrain at least weekly.
    How long do you plan to allow for your 25 mile hike?
  • gonegonzo
    gonegonzo Posts: 22 Member
    Sorry for the delay in answering and thank you for all the input . lorrpd , I plan to allow a week (7 days) for my 25 mile hike and smell all of the roses on the way . If I end early , it's okay and I'll know if I want to do it again .
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