I would like to be a runner and need some advice from WLS peeps

J.L.
on 8/3/10 8:56 am
I would love to run a marathon but I really don't know how to get started. I always push myself really hard and then am too tired/sore to continue. What is a good way to get started? I am ten months out and haven't exercised at all during this time but I am ready now. Thanks!
    
Katie H.
on 8/3/10 9:09 am - Charlton, MA
Do you run already?  If not, a lot of us are graduates of the couch to 5k program and are big fans.  That's what I used to start running and build my base.  Start off doing what you like for cardio and other stuff at the gym - it makes it easier to go when you're excited about what you're going to be doing when you get there.  When I decided I wanted to do my first Half Marathon I was weight training three days a week, cross training two to three days a week and running twice a week. 

There are lots of knowledgeable folks on here and I'm sure they'll chime in with their two cents as well.  Good luck!!

"Running has the power to change your life. It will make you fitter, healthier, even happier."   ~Selene Yeager, "Let's Get Started," May 2010 issue of Runner's World

Sue M.
on 8/3/10 10:18 am - Nantucket, MA
I'm with Katie - the couch to 5k program is a great way to get your feet wet with running.  I also agree that doing weight work and other exercises is important - you are less prone to injury when you do more than run (I prefer to just run, and had a crappy injury!).

try and plan some mid-distance races after you make it to 5K and see how you like them.  Don't rush into a marathon. 
Read my blog, BARIATHLETE   I run because I can.

First 5K race October 4, 2009   (34.59)  PR 5/22/11 (27:26)
First 5 Mile: January 1, 2011 (50:30)
First 10K: July 4, 2010 (1:03.26) New PR 4/10/11 (1:01.14)
First 10 Mile: April 11, 2010  (1:46.15)
First 1/2 marathon: June 13, 2010 (2:22.21)  PR: 5/1/11 (2:17.30)
First Marathon: October 16, 2011: 5:47:20

Goofy Challenge: January 7-8, 2012
If you think you can, you can.  If you think you can't, you're right. - Mary Kay Ash
Amy Smith
on 8/3/10 12:12 pm
I support the couch to 5K.  I never thought I would actually like running and I LOVE IT....some how it is addictive even if I do have to take pain meds in order to get through the chronic left side pain!
DANCBJAMMIN
on 8/3/10 12:43 pm - Fort Worth, TX
Like the others suggested www.c25k.com . A marathon is a noble and ambitious thing. I ran my first 11 months post op and you can get there with hard work, dedication, and solid SMART training. Progress slowly and steadily to avoid injury and to build your base up to the marathon distance of 26.2 glorious miles... You got this. Best of luck and keep us posted on your progress!
Your Friend In Health & Sport,

Dan Benintendi - OH Support Group Leader
www.trimywill.com 
www.swimfromobesity.com
www.trimywill.blogspot.com
Support Group: www.obesityhelp.com/group/Post_Op_PRs/


Linn D.
on 8/3/10 1:05 pm - Missoula, MT
I also like the couch to 5k-types of programs.  I used something similar.  The only thing I would suggest is that you try to do your 'jog' speeds closer to 10-minute miles.  Your fitness will increase faster and you'll have an easier time improving your speeds and distances over time.  I used a treadmill (still do) and did my walks at about a 3.6 or so and the jogs at 6.3.  

Just a little suggestion and take it for what it's worth,

Linn
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