Thinking about becoming a runner?

[sawyer77 1]

Hey, everyone!

I feel a little like a Running Preacher! Every time I finish a run, I'm sad that more people don't "get" it, sad that folks miss out on this GREAT workout, sad that there are people out there that don't get to experience that endorphin rush that feels so good!

I became a runner because of the marvelous Couch To 5K program:

Cool Running :: The Couch-to-5K Running Plan

I ran my first 5K on March 13th, with my next scheduled one on April 17th. I have had so much joy brought in to my life with running, and I truly feel that running changes everything. Actually one of the reasons I decided to become a runner was because it was free. Ha! I'm now addicted to running gear and goodies! :-) [And so much for just running -- two months ago, I also joined an (affordable) gym to crosstrain with free weights and take yoga classes to vary my workout. It's exciting to feel like you are truly doing something FOR YOURSELF and for your health.]

I bought my second pair of running shoes in February, and it feels so good to know that I've worn through a pair of running shoes in four months.

And just so you know, I'm not what anyone would look at and think, "Hey, she must be a runner!" In fact, I think the first week of running in November was the hardest week. I would never have been confused for someone who had athletic ability back in November.

I still feel REALLY slow, and I know myself, and that I thrive on a "plan" -- so I signed up for Fleet Feet/New Balance's No Boundaries 5K training program. It's a 12-week program run out of the Fleet Feet store.

No Boundaries

I figured it can only help me become a better runner. It's very similar to starting C25K over again, but I'm really going to enjoy the social aspect of it, the coaching, and a new goal, a 5K on July 3rd.

I wanted to mention the NB program thought it might be an exciting option for folks who need the social component, maybe that extra push!

Do not allow yourself to be filled with self-doubt -- go after what you want! And one of my FAVORITE quotes, one that goes through my head when I'm trying to keep running, is: "It doesn't matter how slowly you go, so long as you do not stop." -Confucius

Go do it! :-) Then tell us about it!

[wanna be fit@40 0]

Hello!! I sooooo think of doing this all the time. Not now since I'm too heavy, but in time I want to be a runner!!! I must say I even have the same dream over and over and Im always running in the dream and it is the most wonderfull feeling in the world!!! Any advice on how to do this???? What did you do to get started?? Thanks in advance.......:thumbup:

Ps; Im about 7 weeks post op and have lost 19 pounds to date.

[sawyer77 1]

Any advice on how to do this???? What did you do to get started??

Hey, good for you on the 19 pounds! :thumbup:

To get started, I bought running shoes, I downloaded the C25K app onto my iPhone, and I got a knee strap to keep my luxating patella in place -- definitely a necessity for me to have that knee strap!

As far as motivation, I started talking about it on Facebook and twitter A LOT. Then *I JUST DID IT!* I dove in! And I immediately had a whole network of folks cheering me on (and of course, holding me accountable!) -- another great thing I did was join a gym where I know a lot of the other members. During the winter, when I couldn't run on the road due to the unending snow and ice, I would run on the treadmill at the gym. I certainly couldn't give up when those folks (facebook friends, you bet!) were right there watching! Heh. :thumbup::thumbup:

[Jachut 487]

Running is a religion, definitely!

But sadly, many people just wont ever get it. Its not that easy to get into, you have to be able to do it at a certain level of skill and intensity to get that rush from it. When you die just walking around the block, its expecting a lot to be enthusiastic about running.

But there's gotta be a reason why runners are such bigmouths about their passion doesnt there? I never shut up about it.

I think for me, running always respresented the pinnacle of fitness and athleticism, and to me it was the ultimate achievement. I just dont get the same rush from the treadmill/weight machine routine.

And that dream of running and feeling elated, that's always what I imagined about being thin too. Its the mental image I had in my head all the way into surgery.

[wanna be fit@40 0]

And that dream of running and feeling elated, that's always what I imagined about being thin too. Its the mental image I had in my head all the way into surgery.

I soooo love this comment !!! Thanks and I hope to be like you guys someday!!!!:thumbup:

[malissa 0]

I have always wanted to be a runner. I would look out the window enviously at people and long to run too.

I decided that no matter how big I was, I was going to start!

Here I am after a 5k:

Big, probably too fat to be participating, but I really don't care... LOL

I wasn't even in last place....close....but not last.

I still can't run the whole thing. I walk then jog/run, then have to walk again, but I keep chugging along.

Back in November I foolishly tried to do a half-marathon.

Big mistake - I failed. After 4 hours and at mile 9 they had to pick me up in a golf cart. I was devasted and ashamed. :thumbup:

But, chin up. I'm going to try again this November.

I would love to keep in contact and track our progress.

I'm loving it!!

-Malissa

[BetsyB 9]

Most orthopedists really discourage running until goal weight is well within sight---otherwise, there is too much extra stress on the joints.

That said, even when thin, I'm not designed to be a runner. I love the idea, but my body simply does not do it well, even at normal weight. I'm made to walk FAST and LONG--so that's what I do. I can bypass joggers, and get a good workout--but there's just something about changing my gait to a run that turns me into an oaf.

So much for the dreams of elated gliding through the air!

If anyone reading is not cut out to be a runner, either, please know that there ARE other ways to be fit, and that they, too, carry with them the endorphins that make running appealing to those who love it.

[marmar 0]

I agree. Running hurts skinny peoples knees after years of doing it. Me at 334 lbs ( Ive lost 130lbs so far whoo hoo)wow my ankles would break and my knees would give.not to mention my boobs would give me black eyes LOL but someday when Im at goal weight I may give it a try.

[Jachut 487]

Running doesnt necessarily destroy your body if you're running moderate distances like an average person and not running marathons etc. And even then, plenty of marathoners are just fine. Part of the skill of running well too involves having great core strength, strong hips and back muscles protect your knees, hips and feet. People that get inured when they run usually have muscle weaknesses that could be worked on. I try to run only three or four times a week and do something else other days also to give my body a break.

The main people that arent built to run are females with wide hips (that's bony structure wide, not fat storage wide). The Qangle means they have a great angle from knee to hip which predisposes them to injury.

Edited April 3, 2010 by Jachut

[malissa 0]

I would definately be considered the "fat storage wide" LOL.

Let me make it clear, that I am no sprinter/runner.

I am very careful and listen to my body. I start off walking and then jog/run what I can. I am still very overweight - but for me, right now, it is working and I enjoy it.

That being said - Once I lose more weight....I hope to one day be a "true" runner.

[mandze90 0]

I have always had a dream of running a marathon but would never tell anyone as I am so out of shape. My goal since the surgeryis to do 3 5k's this year. Right now I can only run/jog for 4 minutes then take a break then start back up again. I can do 2 miles like that before I want to die so a 5k seems pretty far off to me. Hopefully when a few more pounds come off it will be a little more in reach.

[Jachut 487]

Malissa - being a 'true runner' is a state of mind, what your body can actually do is immaterial!

I always find it interesting in these discussions that there's always someone who feels they must justify why they dont run, they have to put it down. There may be other ways to get the high but its not the same as running. But you have to be a runner to really get that.

Its a weird thing, being a runner. You can indeed get a great workout doing other things. But its just not the same.

[BetsyB 9]

Not putting it down at all. Though I would recommend that it not be done at weights that harm the body. And running while obese does stress joints in ways that are best avoided for many.

I wish I could do it. I can't. I have found alternatives.

That's not putting it down--or "justifying" for why I don't run. If I could, I would--but being hit by a freaking truck sort of took it out of my range of options.

I know it's your passion, Jacqui. I wish I could do it, too.

But not every opinion that is the slightest bit contrary to yours is a put-down of you or your avocations or justification for not doing things the right way. Sometimes it's simply conversing about a topic. I simply offered the perspective of someone who can't share that avocation and has modified it for a body that cannot do it in just the way you do. You know, in case there is anyone else who needs to modify a run to what his or her body can withstand.

Edited April 5, 2010 by BetsyB

[AnneGG 0]

Me, nope, I'm not a runner, either. I walk, I do the elliptical, and pretty soon I'll sign up for the gym. I've never hit the endorphin stage, either, so for me exercise is work. Will it ever be fun???

[malissa 0]

Thanks Jacqui - I needed to hear that. Because when I do run, I think to myself - WOW - I'm a runner too.

You wouldn't believe how many thumbs up I get from total strangers when they drive by me. It really motivates me and I guess, just feels wonderful that they think I'm really trying, even though I'm still so overweight.

I really am VERY careful to listen to my body. I think I have a good stride to not harm my joints and I went to a running store to buy my shoes - (I lost 2 toenails after my half marathon - yuck!)

And I must say - runners are the nicest people I have ever met. Not judgemental or anything - just very helpful and friendly.

I guess I like the sport because I only have to compete with myself.

I'm doing a 5k "team run" with my 10 yr old daughter this weekend. We won't be winning any awards ~ LOL ~ but it sure will be fun!

-Malissa