Question:
Any post ops Jog, how do I get started?

Hello Everyone!! Hope your Holidays went well. My question is do any of you Jog?? I would love to start jogging, i have these urges to do it, I even dream I'm jogging lol, but when I get out there and start running I feel like I'm about to die LOL. I have lost approx. 115 lbs, and need to lose about 85 more. What's the best way to get started without collapsing? Should I wait until I'm at goal, or try something else. Thanks!!    — Carey N. (posted on December 25, 2001)

December 25, 2001
I started running about 3 months post-op, as walking was not longer challenging enough. Before running, be sure you are walking at a fast pace. Does it get your heart rate up sufficiently? If so, continue to do that until you need more. Then start running for a short distance, then walking until you catch your breath again, then run again. Keep your elbows bent, and keep your shoulders over your hips so you aren\'t leaning too far forward. I would often pick out a \"goal\" to run to----a parked car, a tree, an intersection, etc. You will find yourself being able to run farther and farther. Some days you will feel too fatigued to run much, so on those days just walk at a very brisk pace. Vary your route with different scenery and varying degrees of difficulties as far as incline, etc. Be sure to warm up your calves and hamstrings in particular, and even more importantly, stretch AFTER running. Its better not to run two days in a row so you don\'t stress your muscles too much. Just listen to your body and have fun! Soon you will forget feeling awkward and will find it easier. Best of luck!!
   — Susan S.

December 25, 2001
I too want to start jogging. I jog every 5th minute on the tread mill. Then I go back to walking. I\'m going to up the jogging time as I feel like I can. I am at 235 pounds with a 90 pound weight loss. My goal is to be jogging by spring (nothing like not seeing your neighbors during the cold of winter -- and them remembering you fat -- then coming out of your house on the first nice day and running down the street!) Good luck and God Bless!
   — Kimberly L.

December 26, 2001
Start off walking. Then speed up your walking (very graduallyy or you will get too tired and quit!) As you get walking faster, start jogging 1 minute in 5, the 1 minute 30 seconds in 5, then 2 minutes in 5, and keep on building. You don\'t have to go faster- just jog very slowly- same speed as your walk until you can jog the entire time. Then start increasing your speed gradually. This entire process should take WEEKS so don\'t rush it or, again, you may get overwhelmed and quit. I did it and am planning on trying the Chicago Marathon next October! 2 years post- down 140 pounds (10 from goal).
   — M B.

December 26, 2001
If you had knee or other joint problems pre op I would check with your doctor first. Just for safety sake. Walking is GREAT exercise but running could futher damage knnees and ankles. In any case given our heath background a quick PCP call is a good idea.
   — bob-haller

December 26, 2001
I am a pre-op, but have done a lot of running. I played lacrosse in college and ran very well even at 195 pounds. Try interim walking/jogging like the other post said. That\'s a good idea to get started. Gradually increase the walking pace also. Then when you start jogging, control your breathing. If you don\'t pay attention to your breathing, you will naturally start breathing very heavily. Concentrate on keeping your breathing as slow as you can. Also, make sure your strides are at their fullest. If you are not running on a treadmill, you can get a much further distance. (makes you feel good!) Also taking longer strides better distribute your weight. Lastly, remember to drink plenty of water, but not too much before or you will get a tummy ache. Good luck! Running can be a very fun thing after you get in to it!
   — [Anonymous]