Question:
Has anyone run a Marathon in the first year of WLS?

I am progressing really well in my weight loss and am really wanting to find a goal for myself that will force me to hit working out and running as much as possible. Does anyone know if we can run a Marathon in the first year or is that just too soon to properly hydrate through the race and how we would properly eat during the training and week before the race since they say to Carb load. Any insight would be greatly appreciated!    — stutzman (posted on April 21, 2008)

April 21, 2008
I may not be the best person to answer this question since I'm not a marathon runner, however, if you're feeling well and train properly then I can't see any reason why you wouldn't be able to run a marathon in a year. I don't think dehydration should be an issue since you can drink just as much water as anyone else. Just pay attention to your body and make sure that you always get enough protein to cover your exercise. It's great that you want to ratchet up your exercise because you'll lose weight faster and be in better physical shape and health. I play raquetball and started after 6 weeks from surgery...not a single problem.
   — cjjordan

April 21, 2008
What a great attitude to have. I set a goal for myself in steps. I started at the gym 2 weeks after surgery with just 10 minute workout, and keep adding every day, doing more every day 7 days a week. I got up to 1-1/2 hours a day and cut back to 6 days a week. Then I added golf to my routine. I got my wife to caddy as they required a cart if you did not have a caddy at my club. I walked at first just 9 holes in one week, which according to my pedometer was about 3.25 miles, then we kep adding until I could do the entire 18 holes. Finally I joined a group that does beach walks every month, and I had to work at that to be able to get to 10 mile walk. I am 62, so if you are younger, you might be able to do the 26 miles the first year. Remember you don't have to win, just finish and you are miles ahead of everyone else. There is nothing better for you weight loss after the proper diet then to excersize. If you want to carb load to make the trip at the end of the year, try complex carbs, whichare much better for you. They are whole grain bread, brown rice, and whole wheat pasta's. If you need to do some basic carbs the day before, you will but it off in 26 miles. Best of success to you and let us know how you are doing. I give you credit for doing what so few are willing to do, make good use of the tool the surgeon has given you.
   — William (Bill) wmil

April 21, 2008
No, I was told a brisk walk is far better than a run. You are more apt to have a heart attack. Just walk at a steady pace. consult your Dr. Thats the best thing to do.
   — obx100

April 21, 2008
Hi Joe, I would head over to the Exercise and Fitness forums and talk to folks there. I was reading one guy's profile where he had just run a marathon and he wasn't years out. Good luck and keep up the fantastic work!
   — Lori A.