Am i too heavy to start running?

pomegranatesquash
pomegranatesquash Posts: 3 Member
edited October 6 in Fitness and Exercise
Hi,

Im hoping someone can help me, as i seem to be getting alot of mixed reviews on this. I would like to start taking up running, im thinking the couch to 5k would be a good start and I currently weigh 265 pounds.

Am i too heavy to start running? Should i wait till i have lost more weight?

I do exercise almost every day, in either the form of walking and cycling, with cycling being my main exercise.

Hope someone can help

Nessy x
«1

Replies

  • nukie19
    nukie19 Posts: 16
    If you have been walking and exercising, you are probably ok. But, being heavier will mean that you put a lot of additional stress on your joints than a lighter person. A couch to 5K program would probably help you keep your distances in check and not going too crazy - just remember to keep it slow.

    Of course, the real person to ask this to is your doctor who could details the risks vs. rewards of moving to a running workout at your current weight.
  • redheadmommy
    redheadmommy Posts: 908 Member
    I donot think you are too heavy for running, but you will not know until you try. Also the couch to 5K program is practically a jog/walk repeat thing. On the first week, the jogging part is only 60 seconds and the overall running part is 5 minutes. You do not have to be run fast, light jogging works great.
    I started the program a few times, but never was able to finish. My lung gave up much before my legs did. I may try again next year, but if don't work out I 'll just stick to my bike and that is a good cardio too.
  • MaraDiaz
    MaraDiaz Posts: 4,604 Member
    I only run for a few minutes at a time. As soon as my ankles start to hurt (for whatever reason they're the canary in the coalmine) I slow down to a walk again. And my jogging pace is so slow that my kid can walk faster. But it still gets my heart rate up, and I figure I gotta start somewhere.

    Still, why not ask your doctor these questions, or if you have decent health insurance, get a referral to a specialist even?
  • reaolliemama
    reaolliemama Posts: 483 Member
    If you have been walking and exercising, you are probably ok. But, being heavier will mean that you put a lot of additional stress on your joints than a lighter person. A couch to 5K program would probably help you keep your distances in check and not going too crazy - just remember to keep it slow.

    Of course, the real person to ask this to is your doctor who could details the risks vs. rewards of moving to a running workout at your current weight.
  • belgerian
    belgerian Posts: 1,059 Member
    I am only speaking for myself I was around that weight when I decided to change and personally I started out on the elipticals then moved to the treadmill. Started slowly at first like 12 minute for 3 miles and continued to increase the duration and pacing. Currently about 80lbs later and I can do 7.5 minute mile for 8 miles on the treadmill with no major effort. Taken me about 1.5 years to get where I am at today. I will say running and limiting my calories to around 1600 to 2000 a day Max initially the weight practically melted off. But again pay attention to your legs they will let you know when you are over exerting them I still tend to ignore them sometimes and I pay the price.
  • purpleprose
    purpleprose Posts: 650
    I started C25K at 285, and I'm now under 200, so I would say no. But I would also say to combine with with some strength training and that'll help, too. :smile:
  • Spearo
    Spearo Posts: 47
    You can run. I see some people your size out there on the trails a lot and doing half marathons. I am always in awe and you have my utmost respect!

    Look into a walk/run/escalating program that gets you up to 5 or 10k over time.

    Cheers and have fun.
  • mleoni092708
    mleoni092708 Posts: 629 Member
    I have wondered about this too-don't want to stress out my joints, knees, and feet with my weight at 216. Was thinking of waiting until I get to around 170 lbs or so before I attempt to become a runner.
  • vanessaclarkgbr
    vanessaclarkgbr Posts: 731 Member
    I'm a Nessy too!

    I'd say no, not from my own experience but from reading on here, many success stories from similar people. I definitely agree with starting on a programme such as C25K, it will help to prevent you doing too much too soon and getting injured and demoralised.

    I personally started on an elliptical, but if I was starting from scratch again after reading the forum posts I'd get straight out there - outside is just so much nicer.

    Loads of luck, you'll do great! x
  • CaptainGordo
    CaptainGordo Posts: 4,437 Member
    I did C25K at a higher weight than you. Give it a try. Well-cushioned shoes helped me when I started.

    There is a C25K fan/support group here. Join us for info and support! http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/30-couch-to-5k-running-program-c25k
  • BobbyClerici
    BobbyClerici Posts: 813 Member
    I was a round mound of 262, and yes, I started running.

    Well, it was running to me. Most people crawl faster, but no worry; I was out and doing the best I could.
    Sometimes I'd run to the end of the street, then one driveway past, then another, and before long?

    ONE MILE!

    It was not long before I was running 2, then 3 and I stopped increasing after 4 miles. I lost 64 lbs so far, and do various other forms of cardio, but I still do my runs a few times each week.

    Go slow, and do not be too proud to stop for a walk if your body says stop.
    Make sure you get a complete physical and talk to your doc before starting.
  • wonca
    wonca Posts: 81
    In addition to what people have already said, if you decide to start running (even vigorous walking), I'd encourage you to take the time and money and invest in some good running shoes.
  • gr8chick
    gr8chick Posts: 11 Member
    I started running at 208 lbs using the Couch to 5k program. Although I haven't lost much weight, because I don't make good nutrition choices, I LOVE running. although some may argue that I'm just walking really fast. LOL!!! It does take it's toll on my knees, and ankles sometimes, so just listen to your body. Since begining in 2009, i have completed about six 5k's and one half marathon. But like some have said, it's best to consult your doc. When (not if) you do start running, you're gonna feel so empowered, and free! Wishing you the best, and I betcha you're gonna love it!!
  • engineman312
    engineman312 Posts: 3,450 Member
    i was cycling a lot too, and then one day it was rainy and i just went for a run. did 2 miles in 30 minutes. i've gotten better.

    no one says you have togo out and run ten miles in an hour. just go out and run. i never tried C25k, but i've heard it works for a lot of people.
  • agthorn
    agthorn Posts: 1,844 Member
    I'd think if it feels okay on your joints, go for it! Make sure you are properly fitted for RUNNING shoes and try to avoid running on concrete/sidewalks whenever possible - run on a track, a trail, or an asphalt surface as much as you can (I run on the side of the road wherever it's safe to do so). Concrete is 10+ times harder than asphalt and other surfaces, so you would be putting more impact on your joints. Go slow and build up. Good luck!
  • gr8chick
    gr8chick Posts: 11 Member
    Oh, and you MUST invest in good RUNNING shoes!!
  • EuphonyChloeH
    EuphonyChloeH Posts: 107 Member
    I started C25K at 285, and I'm now under 200, so I would say no. But I would also say to combine with with some strength training and that'll help, too. :smile:

    I agree with the strength training. I'm in the same predicament as you, wanting to run but fearing that I am too heavy, and usually when I start running I get shin splints a few weeks in. So I've been prepping by doing the elliptical to get my body used to moving again, as well as doing some strength training on my legs. I'll start the C25K at the New Year.

    Also, don't hesitate to take your time with the program. It says ten weeks, but if you feel like you should repeat a week, then by all means!
  • cjpg
    cjpg Posts: 433 Member
    Don't fret - I was 116kg (255 pounds) when I started diet and exercise at the gym. I've consistently ran a 5k run each Wednesday OR Friday every week, once a week.

    The important thing is to make sure you give your body time to recover. Don't push yourself unless you feel as close to 100% as possible.
  • kr3851
    kr3851 Posts: 994 Member
    EVERYONE CAN RUN. Just pace yourself... Go a lot slower than you think you should go for the first few 'runs'. I started C25K at 285lbs and did the first two weeks before deciding that I'd stick with cycling for the moment. I couldn't keep up the running segment for very long at all - sometimes only 20 or 30 seconds.

    A few months later, I now realise I was trying to run too fast. I started doing some intervals on the treadmill and was running only 1kmh faster than I walk and can keep it up for a couple of minutes at a time. I've now taken up Bikram Yoga so have shelved running for a while. I have to keep finding new workouts because I get bored so easily!!
  • seehawkmomma
    seehawkmomma Posts: 815
    I was told by my doctor anyone over 200 shouold not run due to the issues it can cause to your legs and joints.

    However, I am not a doctor.
  • Dawners98
    Dawners98 Posts: 120 Member
    I would say that it really just depends on you. I've heard it both ways and I didn't feel I was ready to start running at the 243 I started at. However, I've never been much of a runner, so that may have been part of it.

    If you do decide to run, please pay close attention to your body. Don't ever 'run through the pain' and be sure if you do feel a little tender in the ankles, knees, hips, or anywhere, to take more than just a day or two to recoup. There are plenty of non-impact exercises you can do while you give your body a rest!

    Whatever you decide, good luck!!!
  • gp79
    gp79 Posts: 1,799 Member
    I'm 6'3. I started running again at 292 lbs, the heaviest I'd ever been. It sucked...but over time it became much easier.
  • Articeluvsmemphis
    Articeluvsmemphis Posts: 1,987 Member
    yep you can start, :) I can run (on the treadmill), at first almost a mile, but that was at a 4.0pace(jogging) I'm up to 4.3so maybe 1/2mile right now is where I'm at. just takes time to build endurance
  • CaptainGordo
    CaptainGordo Posts: 4,437 Member
    EVERYONE CAN RUN. Just pace yourself... Go a lot slower than you think you should go for the first few 'runs'. I started C25K at 285lbs and did the first two weeks before deciding that I'd stick with cycling for the moment. I couldn't keep up the running segment for very long at all - sometimes only 20 or 30 seconds.

    A few months later, I now realise I was trying to run too fast. I started doing some intervals on the treadmill and was running only 1kmh faster than I walk and can keep it up for a couple of minutes at a time. I've now taken up Bikram Yoga so have shelved running for a while. I have to keep finding new workouts because I get bored so easily!!
    YES! Keep in mind that C25K can be tailored to your needs. Feel free to repeat days/weeks until you are ready to move on to the next one. :drinker:
  • crazyellybean
    crazyellybean Posts: 999 Member
    Try the C25K... I started it at 297lbs, even though I did not make it, I tried it about every 15lbs after that, I'm not on my 3rd round and am up to Week 5! ... You can do it!! oh and I'm now 262lbs!
  • SpringFever19
    SpringFever19 Posts: 180 Member
    I was a round mound of 262, and yes, I started running.

    Well, it was running to me. Most people crawl faster, but no worry; I was out and doing the best I could.
    Sometimes I'd run to the end of the street, then one driveway past, then another, and before long?

    ONE MILE!

    It was not long before I was running 2, then 3 and I stopped increasing after 4 miles. I lost 64 lbs so far, and do various other forms of cardio, but I still do my runs a few times each week.

    Go slow, and do not be too proud to stop for a walk if your body says stop.
    Make sure you get a complete physical and talk to your doc before starting.

    This all, absolutely. My best friend (and me too because regardless of weight, I was not a "run-for-fun"ner) did this and now she is running 5Ks, the treadmill, outside, inside, she is amazing. Run one block, then two. Run to the next mailbox, the next car, next crack in the road, and when you get there, ask yourself if you have to stop, or can you keep going. And as always, most important of all (after you talk to your MD), LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! Not your head, your body. It know better than you when you need a break or when you can keep going. Good luck!
  • iplayoutside19
    iplayoutside19 Posts: 2,304 Member
    I weighed over 300 lbs when I started C25K. I had been walking for 9 months before that. Blowing out a knee was a major concern of mine. However, as I progressed through the program my knees got stronger. That was two years ago. I've been running off and on since then. I ran 8 miles on Saturday and I weigh 292 lbs. But like the C25K Program I only run 3 days week in an attempt to prevent over use injuries, so far so good.

    Just listen to your body. There is a difference between pain and discomfort. Stop if there's pain. You should probably ask a Doc. But if you've been walking and cycling your joints likely have some infastructure to ease into something with more impact.
  • bcampbell54
    bcampbell54 Posts: 932 Member
    1. See your doctor, check for knee or ankle issues, assuming he has already cleared you from a cardiac standpoint
    2. Invest in good shoes, well-fitted
    3. Take your time, repeat weeks as necessary

    There, I think that sums it up
    Couch to 5k awaits!
  • Karebearninja
    Karebearninja Posts: 32 Member
    In addition to what people have already said, if you decide to start running (even vigorous walking), I'd encourage you to take the time and money and invest in some good running shoes.

    I agree with this! I started running a few weeks ago and I've gotten shin splints which are a pain. Pun intended.
  • PoohAA
    PoohAA Posts: 12 Member
    My opinion, as a med student, is: it depends. If your blood pressure is under control, you have no other heart / muscle / skeletal / neurological / ... etc conditions that would limit you or put at an increased risk for injury, and you CAN run, then go for it! The health benefits from weight loss are incredible. That said, be sure to do it right. As so many people have said, pay attention if anything hurts. Get some good shoes, don't overdo it, and consider using a track and dividing your time between running and other training like using an elliptical, bike, or probably best for your joints, swimming.
This discussion has been closed.

Categories