I'm starting to incorporate running into my routines - well, more like slow jogging at this point! I have been doing spinning for several months now and I swim periodically but I want to mix it up a little bit. Plus, I have a very lofty goal of maybe training for a triathlon some day. I have had slight knee problems in the past (prior to weight loss) so I want to get fitted for proper running shoes at some point but I'm nervous about going into the running store as a total beginner. I have read/heard that they watch you run to check your gait and recommend shoes - but how does that work when I honestly can barely run a minute right now? Do you just wait until you can run more before getting fitted? Or can they recommend something without having to watch you run? Sorry if this is a completely silly question! I'm pretty intimidated by the whole running scene right now and am having trouble getting started.

Try to get fitted first. They will know what to do with a newbie and having proper shoes will help you start off on the right foot.

Also be aware that some patients experience weight loss in their feet. They can drop a foot size and also the foot width can become less wide. Since you have already lost 108.6 or more pounds, this effect may have already occurred. But if you were a newbie, I might recommend delaying the purchase of custom fitted running shoes, until you reach your bottom weight.

Edited November 20, 20178 yr by James Marusek
typographical error correction

Don't be afraid of your local running store - its the best thing you can do for your feet. Do keep track of your mileage on your shoes.

Don't be afraid! I went for the first time a few months ago and I was so glad I did. They wanted to see me walk. I asked them to watch me run. It was just inside the store - a few yards at most. It is totally worth it! Ask for recommendations from your running/gym friends.

Sent from my XT1585 using BariatricPal mobile app

I agree...Visit the local running store. The purpose of them watching you run is to determine your stability needs based on your gait. As you train, your needs could change so keep that in mind as well.

If you're not ready to commit to a fitting yet, there is a way you can see what type of shoe your need to look for. Check out the links below, and then once you do the foot test at home, you can research your specific type of gait and what shoes are best for you. I found out I am an under-pronator several years ago when I started running, and have to get neutral shoes with cushioning. I had been wearing the ones with stability and kept turning my ankle.

My favorite shoes are Brooks, they are usually kind of ugly, but they are so much better for the stress on my feet, knees, hips and back. I had a back injury a few years ago, and am just recently getting back into running. I bought a new pair this year, and still use the ones I had when I ran a few years ago.

Cheaper brands that I've used that are ok, but don't seem to last as long, are Asics and Saucony.

Good luck with running! I've never been fast, but it is a good feeling when you progress and beat your own personal best times!

https://www.livestrong.com/article/173249-exercises-for-ankle-pronation/

https://www.runnersworld.com/running-shoes/the-wet-test

http://www.asics.com/us/en-us/pronation-guide

12 hours ago, James Marusek said:

They can drop a foot size and also the foot width can become less wide.

Yeah ... I have a favourite Brooks Walker that I used to get as a 10EEEE. After Easter, there were no 10EEEEs imported to Australia, so I said to my wife that I'd use the gift voucher on a 10EE size.

They were quite snug in April & May. They stayed at the back of the shoe-rack.

Guess what?

Five weeks post-op and 21kg (46 pounds) lighter and they are great comfortable fit.

Yay!

Thank you everyone for the helpful advice and encouragement! My Christmas list now includes good running shoes There is actually a running store about a mile away from my house so I will pop in there soon and see what they have to say!

Hi,

First congrats on improving your health thus far. Please dont limit yourself. If you train and get medical clearance, why not do a triathlon? Plenty of people on here have accomplished all types of incredible fitness goals and so can you. Do some research on shoes after you try a few on that they recommend. Some brands are not as well made as you would think. Certain models of shoes that used to be amazing are no longer well made due to a number of factors. Some will last you longer than others. You may want to get a second pair when its possible to rotate both.