Any Runners Out There?

I am 9 months post op and am beginning a running program. Are there any post op runners who can give some perspective on hints and tips for a post op runner? I am afraid that the small amount of food we eat may not provide the energy and fuel needed for that type of exercise. Any hints on good foods to eat before a run or any thing else that could be of help? Thanks so much! Sandra

I've just started running and I'm 7 months post op. It hasn't been terribly hard - I try to make sure I'm extra hydrated on the days I run, and I try to run within an hour of eating something small, like a protein bar. It's gone fine for me so far. Good luck to you.

I was a runner in my college days and the first half of my 20's. I started running again about a month ago and things have been going well. I am working up to running, non-stop for 20 minutes, then I will set a new goal. I get in extra fluids on the days I run, as well as the day after. I have a problem with dehydrating very quickly and then having black outs. I also do a protein shake or bar after working out and eat a light meal about an hour or so before running. As far as working up to running a distance....start slow and do intervals of walking and a light jog. I push myself as far as I can go, then go to a fast walk while checking my pluse. I walk for 30 seconds to a minute and then run again for 1 to 3 minutes. After the 20 minutes of intervals (I am up to 13 minutes of running with in 20 minutes), I will either do another 10-15 minutes of walking at a steep incline on the treadmill (I set the incline high, then bring it down a 1/2 setting every 30 seconds or a whole setting every minute until its time to cool down). Sometimes I will warm up before running on the eliptical for 20 to 30 minutes, or on the day I don't run, I will do 50 to 65 minutes on the eliptical. Also, weight training is important. I do a whole body weight training workout 2 to 3 times per week which usually takes me 45 to 60 minutes. Start with whatever works for you. You don't want to push too hard, but you do want to push hard enough to challenge yourself. You may also want to work with a personal trainer to get you started on a program. Make sure you warm up and cool down and really do some good stretching afterwards. And...enjoy yourself!! Have fun running!! Heather