? for veteran runners or those knowledgeable

G

getnfit@38

Cathlete
Hi everyone,

I've been interested in running for some time, but having read several "horror stories" about injuries suffered to knees, ankles, shins, feet, etc because the runner is overweight and putting too much stress on their lower body joints, I purposely chose to wait until I reached a more reasonable weight.

I'm wondering if 175"ish" is still too heavy to safely begin running? I always try to practice "safety first" but then again, had I listened to most "experts" when I was 300lbs, I would have never attempted Cathe back then! But I know the impact of running is different than the impact of an aerobic video, so that's where the needed advice/input from you that know comes in! :)

If running at my current weight is alright, then what sort of protection should I be looking for when investing in a good running shoe? I'm assuming that at a higher weight, cushioning would be a necessity, and possibly foot stability?
And if running at this weight is not advisable, what weight would be considered "safe" to prevent any knee/joint stress?

Thanks for all input :)
Donna
 
Dear Getnfit,

I don't know if this is really an answer you're looking for but I ran for two years, about 10 miles a week, and I weighed 175 lbs as well. I stopped because I developed the beginning stages of Plantar's fascitis.

I don't know if my weight had anything to do with it. I know there are many runners who are much lighter than me that develop Paltar's fascitis.

Anyway, just my two cents.

Susan G.
 
Hi,

My DH runs and he is 215 lbs, so I don't know if there is an "acceptable" weight to run. Football players run and they're well into the 300 lbs.

The important thing IMO, is to start SLOW. That goes for lighter people, too, but more so for the "heavier."

Good shoes are a must. If you can, get your first pair at a running store, not one of those huge athletic shoe stores. The employees tend to be better trained at the smaller, runner-specific stores. I understand that New Balance makes good shoes for heavier runners. My DH loves them. I'd avoid Nike's. I've heard other runners complain about how quickly the cushion goes.

Good luck to you. Congratulations on your weight loss. Don't be afraid to run. If you're smart about it and build your "running" muscles slowly, you'll be fine.


"Pain is weakness leaving the body."
 
Hi Donna,
I think you will be fine running at your weight. Like any beginning runner, I would highly recommend starting out with a beginner's program - doing run/walks, being careful not to do too much/too fast, etc. You are obviously very fit, you just need your body to get used to the different stresses of running.
As far as shoes, I agree that you may need to be more careful - it seems a lot of them are built for lighter runners. You could do research on the different brands/varieties and find some that are suitable. Your best bet would be too find a specialty running store if you have one available in your area and have a knowledgeable sales person help you find the right style/fit for you.
Good luck! If you decide to start running, hope you love it - it's my favorite cardio activity and I have run at lots of different weights with no problems (yet!).
Erica
 
Hi Donna!

I just wanted to agree that you should buy your shoes at a running store, and have the salespeople help pick a pair, and start with run/walks.

You also may need a little more rest time, depending on how often you plan on running. I know you follow a pretty intense workout schedule. You'll be surprised at the different muscles running uses.

Let us know how it goes!

Andrea
 
Hi Donna. I would encourage you to give running a try. It will take you some time to develop the endurance to run distance (as it would for any novice runner), but take it slowly and you will be fine.

Summer can be a difficult time to train. The heat and humidity can be suffocating and dangerous. So, if you feel absolutely wiped out for your running efforts, don't allow it to be a guage of your current level of fitness. I would aim to develop a low base milage and build on that when the cooler weather arrives.

I agree with all of the good advice you've already been given, especially the recommendation for good shoes. Running can be a pretty inexpensive sport; all you need is a good pair of shoes (and good sports bras if you're well endowed.)

Check out your library for running books. I'll bet that Runner's World magazine has a web site...hmmm...

Good luck!
 
Hi Donna,
I also think you can begin running at your weight now. I'm not a scrawney lightweight either, and I jog about 5-7 miles per week also. I wear New Balance running shoes. They have a lot of support and cushion. I also put an extra Dr. Sholls support in the shoe on top of what it comes with. It seems to work for me. Good luck.
Linda
 
Donna,

There is a great web site that has lots of info. the how to's etc. The site has info from beginners to experts and the forums are great there too. Just click on the "training" tab to get beginner help. BTW I'm a lurker and you inspire me very much. :) Here is the site: http://www.coolrunning.com/

Take Care,
Debbie
 
WOW and Thanks!!!!!! :)

I just checked in and couldn't believe the responses :)

I am going to check out both websites for info, and I will gather as much info as I can before beginning to run. I'm hoping that the "crosstraining" effect of running will be just what shakes my body up. My ability to lose weight has changed dramatically since I dropped under 200lbs. Compared to when I first began losing, the first 175lbs literally "fell" off, now I'm working my tail off trying to work my tail off! :)
I humbly apologize to anyone who previously posted anything like, "I have 10-50lbs to lose and it's just so hard!" Because I USE TO think to myself, "boy, I WISH that was all I had to lose, they're complaining for nothing!" How sorry I am for even entertaining that thought! It is more of a struggle to lose weight now than it was 50-100lbs ago! I had the nerve to arrogantly think the last 50lbs would be "a breeze!"

But thank you all for the support, and I will take it slowly as I have a feeling running will be a horse of a different color from aerobics! And I'm planning to use it as a crosstraining cardio, so it won't be a daily event at least for now, I'm going to strive for 2x/week initially to give my body a chance to adjust. This should be interesting, I can't wait to see how much endurance I'll have for it. Something tells me it might make me long for "Imax day!" Well, that's a frightening thought!

Anymore pointers/advice is appreciated, and I will update in a few weeks after my first run. :)

Donna
 
Good luck Donna

You received great advice:

1) Start slowly with a run/walk program
2) If at all possible, purchase shoes at a specialty running store. I go to "Snails Pace" where a staff person literally goes outside with you & checks your gait. Yes, you'll want cushioning, but you will also want a shoe that's built for your striding style.
3) Road Runner Sports is a great online source for running gear. You might use their "shoe dog" to get some ideas before you go shoe shopping.

The Runners World website is a great resource & also has several forums that might interest you. The magazine is terrific for all levels. Good training tips, nutrition info & general inspiration for any fitness enthusiast.

Have fun & be patient. As always, listen to your body.

Debra
 
RE: WOW and Thanks!!!!!! :)

Would you consider powerwalking? Running is very hard on the knees, and I can testify as a powerwalker of 11 years now that I have never had an injury due to walking.

I got one of those Powerbelts to kick it up a notch (bam!). You can do walk/run intervals very easily.

Don't get discouraged about your slow weight loss ...that just means you're getting closer to your ideal weight. I don't know that you've told us how much more you want to lose, or if you did I wasn't reading all the posts that day.
 
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