Planning for a 5K

I had RNY on 2 December and was doing well until I was told to advance my diet. I am having a barium swallow tomorrow and who knows after that. My question is for all the runners. I am signed up for a 5K on 5 June 2010 in Washington, D.C. and will NOT miss this event. I want to start training now but need a plan. I have researched it but the plans I see are not possible for me right now. I have a treadmill, an elliptical, and a BioForce (like a BioFlex) that my husband bought me. I REALLY want help with this as well as tightening up upper arms and thighs. Thank you all for the encouragement you have been. 

www.c25k.com

What Dan said!

The Couch to 5k is the way to start. 

In addition to what Dan and Scott replied...

Don't think that you have to jog very fast at first.  I don't know what your body can handle, but you can also repeat weeks if you need to.  As an example, you might want to stick to week 1 for a month while you're still losing and possibly increase the jog speed as you're able.

Arms and thighs...  not really any suggestions except general strengthening.  Lots of folks have loose skin that just doesn't go away.  My biggest problem is the boobs and belly, so I use compression tops (and 2 bras) to keep the bounce at bay.  Compression shorts are also a good way to go.

Next thing: get fitted for good running shoes at a specialty running store.  This is one area NOT to skimp on.  The correct shoe for your gait can be one of the best things to help you have good form and help prevent injury as you move forward with your fitness goals.  My shoes cost between $90 and $110, and I have 3 brands I can wear comfortably.  I also always have 2 pair so I can alternate shoes on run days.

Good Luck!

Linn

Absolutley, Linn has some great suggestions to assist you in that c25k program.

Good luck and keep us informed on how it's going.

Scott

Thanks Linn.

This is my first time on this board, but I'll jump right in and say there's a great C25K app, if you're an iphone or itouch user.    I've been using it for months at varying speeds as my fitness level has increased and think it's great.

Good luck!

Meg

 I had surgery Sept 30 and ran my first 5k November 26.  Couch to 5k got me there no problem.  I was able to skip a few weeks of the program because I already had a solid athletic back ground and I progressed quickly.