Running

[bitter42 23]

One of my goals after I have my sleeve is to run a 5K. I see so many people on here running miles and miles and am so excited.

But how long after you were sleeved were you able to start running and for how long?

Right now, I can run for about 20 seconds without feeling like I'm about to die. Now, I can walk for miles, but I WANT to run. It's like I'm craving it, but I just can't see how I will ever be able to go miles.

My NUT recommended that I don't do any running at this weight (317) because I don't have any joint problems, but could cause some easily. So, when do I start and how? I have couch to 5k on my phone--does it work?

Also, where does everyone run? I hate the thought of all my neighbors watching my flab bounce around as I pant around the block!

[deedadumble 1,033]

I started doing C25K one month after surgery (1/17/13). I was about 245lb at that time. I believe you can minimize injuries and wear on your joints by getting fitted for good running shoes and having good running form. Read about and watch videos on Chi running. Keep your strides short so you don't put too much pressure on your knees. I did my first 5K (run/walk) after surgery in May 2013, my first 10K in Nov 2013, and three half marathons and a Ragnar Relay (Miami to Key West) this year. The key to all of these accomplishments is perseverance. Even when I had horrible runs, I still got out there the next time and tried again. Good luck!

[InfiniteButterfly 438]

I have C25K as well, and I'm waiting for my doctor's okay to start it. I'm planning to run on Presque Isle State Park, which has a fantastic trail system. I figure bike to get there, and then do my jog and bike home.

[deedadumble 1,033]

I have a treadmill, but I really enjoy running outside. I don't give a sh!t what anybody thinks about me running. Put on some good tunes and zone out!

[Bluesea71 698]

I have a goal to start my couch to 5k app when I get to 200 pounds. I started my journey at 226 and am currently at 203. I guess I better start motivating myself to start! It hurt my knees to run when I was heavier and couldn't run for long anyway. I figured its better to walk daily for an hour than run for 20 seconds and risk an injury! There seems to be plenty of people who start earlier. Good luck with whatever you set your heart on!

Edited May 22, 2014 by Bluesea71

[livvsmum 2,368]

I started couch to 5k at about 4 months post op. I knew I wanted to go to the gym but felt very intimidated with all of the equipment so the treadmill seemed like the least intimidating thing to me. That is how I started my journey with running. I stuck to the plan on the app to start with and have my first 5k coming up in 10 days! I'm super excited and very nervous. I plan to keep working and train for a 1/2 marathon and marathon. I agree though, running does put stress on your joints. My knees are sometimes achy after a run where I have never really had any trouble before. Nothing unmanageable, but you have to take rest days especially when you are beginning.

Edited May 22, 2014 by livvsmum

[indecision 863]

I started at about 6 months out. I also started with an app like the C25K but was the 10K version. It helped me get started but I abandoned the app eventually and just went running.

[livvsmum 2,368]

I started at about 6 months out. I also started with an app like the C25K but was the 10K version. It helped me get started but I abandoned the app eventually and just went running.

Yes! I actually did that too. Somewhere between weeks 6 & 7 the intervals got distracting to me and I just started running as far/long as I could without it.

[Stacy_wls 135]

I started doing walk / jog intervals at about 2 weeks out. Now 5.5 months out I am running faster than I ever have before. I'm also signed up for the Chicago Marathon in October. I was 265 when I started running -- as you drop weight it becomes so much easier.

The C25K is a great way to get going!