New runner

  Hi all,
  I had gastric bypass in May 2010, and have lost around 150 lbs.  For the most part, my excercise regime up to this point has been walking.  I have decided to start training to do a 5k.  I have an excessive amount of skin on my stomach from the weight loss, and dr. is wanting to wait until we know I am done to refer me to a plastic surgeon.  So, what can I use to hold all of this in when I start running?  I have heard people talk about using spanx on here, but not sure if that is something used for excercise. Thanks!

Welcome to the group and to a great new lifestyle.

First to answer you main question.  I use compression garmets like Under Armor by them 1-2 sizes smaller than what you actually wear and for me they are great at holding all the jiggly stuff in place.

Before you Start training be sure you go to a good specialty running store and get fitted for running shoes.  The process typically involves you gettin on a treadmill so they can analyze your stride.  This allows them to find the type of Shoe designed for your foot, having the right shoe makes a world of difference.

I didn't use it but many people have had success with the C25K training program.  This takes you from a non runner to being able to run a 5K.  It is an interval based program that has you run 3 days a week.  As you progress through the program your run times increase and your walk times decrease.  I would focus on being able to complete the runs and not focus much on speed.

C25K is a 9 week program so for a bit of motivation go to a site like active.com and find a 5K in your local area that is about 12 weeks from when you start the program.  This is a great motivator and gives you a tangible goal to work towards.

Also chime in on our daily workout threads to keep motivated, get inspired and inspire others!

Hi and welcome to a whole new aspect of your new life.  You will find yourself doing things you never dreamed possible.

Paul covered the good stuff - shoes being so very important, not just for your feet but also keeping everything else in line from the ankle up.  Gotta get da good shoes!

For a woman with some 'girls' a good sports bra is almost as critical as the shoes.  I am doing the C25k, am on week 5, and it is painful to run without the compression sports bra.

I wear compression garments when I work out and under my work clothes just because it holds all the jiggly parts.  I use UnderArmour shorts & tanks for exercise and the brand from Target- Suddenly Skinny under my dress clothes 'cuz they are a little bit more feminine.

Post daily in the Daily Workout thread and you will receive unbelievable support from everyone here.

Good Luck
Pam

I think the others covered most of it. I started off buying the Champion workout clothes from Target. Get a size you squeeze into, I wear medium and like the capris. I find they hold all the jiggle stuff in pretty well, and I have a lot on my stomach too.

Have fun. It gets addicting!
Jan