Any runners out there?

Hi everyone! I was just wondering if anyone else has started running for exercise? I have never ever been a runner but I always dreamed of being able to. I've started running on the treadmill but haven't ventured outdoors yet. Is anyone else just getting started with running? I was just curious if anyone is, and what kind of programs you're doing? Deanna

Hee hee Deanna, you are so funny. You aren't just starting out running, you are a runner. I was going to post to you asking how you got started. Like you, I have always dreamed of being able to run, in my imagination and literally in my dreams. I haven't had the courage to venture out yet, as I still see myself as fat and unfit. Did you just start running and do as much as you can, run then walk, or what? I think you are amazing that you can run 3 miles... Ruth

Hi Ruth! When I started, I could only make it 5 minutes before I thought I was going to pass out. But I've found that once I pass that magic 4 or 5 minute mark, my breathing gets easier and I get into a zone where I can all the sudden just keep going. It's like once I pass that initial hard breathing zone, then everything is better. Hard to explain! My problem is that I sweat buckets! I literally have to hold onto a small towel so I can mop my face and neck off while I'm running! And then my knees start to get really tired so 3 miles is about all I can physically take right now! I hope to work up to more! The fitness coach at our gym says you can start in intervals ... walk for 2 minutes, run for 2 minutes, walk for 2 minutes, run for 2 minutes ... keep going. And you can increase it to 5 minutes, 10 minutes, etc. That way you can "rest" a bit during your walking part and it still keeps your heart rate up. I've tried this too so I usually mix up my routine a bit. I think you should start running! Come on! Run with me!!! You can do it! I still see myself as fat and unfit too but I figured that I'm paying good money for that gym membership, I don't care if my belly is flapping along while I run! People don't really have any business making fun of me if I'm there trying! Hee, hee! My next hurdle is to run outside ... I'd love to just take off for a jog but I have these nightmares of people driving past me making "mooooo" noises! Deanna

Thanks Deanna The problem too is I don't have gym membership so it would be out on the streets. Mindyou, I've just thought that I could go to a park...hmmm. I might just be getting inspired here. I'll be joining you soon

I actually tried the treadmill the other day and i could feel the pounding it was giving my bad knee.. I had to stop and my knee hurt the next day. I dont know if i can run yet.. when I was younger I used to love to run but not so much anymore.. i think it is more fear for my knee than anything else.

I try, I run then walk then run, I am 44 and can tell!...LOL..... I dont know if I will ever get to run 1 mile (I will try) (I got a treadmill for my birthday), your doing so great with 3 and all the weight you have lost.....

I did it, I did it, I did it-----------woohoo! I've just come in from going out running - yes on the open streets. I went about 1/2 mile, only stopping 2 times to catch my breath. I went out with Millie on her scooter and Ron, I was in my coat, so if anyone saw me they might just think I was running after my daughter, hee hee. But actually I was out in front most of the time. I've crossed that barrier and did it. I'm so pleased with myself. Now I need to get where I can run around the whole block without stopping to catch my breath. Deanna, it's such a lovely feeling running outside, you really must try it, especially as you are such a good runner.

HURRAY FOR RUTH!!!!! I am so excited for you! I bet Millie thought that was so much fun to have you running along with her on her scooter! I'm so proud of you! After I run, I get this feeling like I can do ANYTHING! It's amazing isn't it? Look at how far we've come! A year ago, would you have imagined yourself doing this? I think it's an amazing feeling! We picked up a map for a State park that has a bunch of hiking trails on it. I told my husband, we are doing that this summer! I can't wait! Look how many opportunities are available to us now! Wow! Good job Ruth! Deanna

I have started running. I hate it, but I do it. I am training to do a 5K run for labor day. I want to be able to say once in my life I was healthy enough and in shape enough to do it. I currently walk/run a 5K 4 days a week in about 45 minutes. I am up to running 30 minutes of the 45.

Hi Neil! Great job! I also signed up to run a 5K race in April ... I can't wait! It sounds like we have similar goals! I'm also running for about 30 minutes or about 3 miles at a time. Never in my life did I think I'd be able to do that! I'd love to be able to run a half marathon some day soon so that is why I'm starting with the 5K ... ease on into it! Deanna