Fat, severe arthritis. Can I run/jog?

[flowersonthepiano]

I am at least 5 stones overweight, having lost 4 stone already. I walk about 40 mins a day with my dog. Not usually very quickly, but sometimes fast enough to get sweaty/ out of breath. I have severe arthritis in both knees, which is painful and exacerbated by the weight. I've been told I need them replaced but am relatively young (under 50) so my GP is putting off referring me as long as they can. I want to lose more weight, not least because I am sure I'll be told I have to before I can have surgery anyway. And I want to run, but am afraid of doing more damage and the pain. I don't want to join a gym. I find them tedious and would probably end up paying for it, but not going. I like being outdoors, but not too keen on biking. And it depresses me that I currently feel I can't run, and like I might never be able to again . Should I have a go at couch 2 2 5k? Or is it a ridiculous idea?

[austenozzy]

Running can hurt your knees more, and in my opinion is dull. Have you looked for any outdoor exercise groups near you? The benefit is that they're usually PT led, and they will give good advice. It's different every time and is very social and supportive. No judgement at the one I go to at all, just positivity. Worth a try.

[flowersonthepiano]

Thanks for your reply austenozzy . I'm not particularly sociable really, and the only exercises I've ever really enjoyed are things I can do alone (swimming, walking, running, horse riding - yonks ago). Swimming is good, but I like the idea of running because it can be fitted in when convenient and doesn't involve driving anywhere. Also, I just want to be able to run, iyswim?

[RunningOutOfCharge]

I don't know why people think running can hurt knees?

Sitting around can hurt them more.... being overweight etc

Well done op for doing something about it. Running is as 'dull' or fun as you make it. I highly recommend C25K

[austenozzy]

I should have started by saying congrats to you, op, on your success to date in losing weight and the desire to do more and be more healthy.

Have you spoken to your gp or consultant about running, or other exercise? If you're in need of reparative knee surgery and five stone overweight then I'll hazard a guess that they're going to suggest pretty much anything but running! Swimming would be top of my list, followed by rowing and weights.

I still think an outdoor PT led group would be worth a look. You don't need to be the life of the party, there are plenty of quiet ones at my group who just crack on. my point is that it's not like some alpha gym atmosphere, but much more supportive and non judgemental. They'll offer as much help and interaction as you want, if any. And it's outdoors which adds its own dimension.

(Didn't mean to be so down on running, running, I just do find it quite dull! I run on the coast path in cornwall, so I really should appreciate it more!)

[RunningOutOfCharge]

Oh I missed the arthritis was in the knees! Sorry

Def speak to doc first then op.

[picklemepopcorn]

What would be easy on your joints would be one of those cross trainers, like a skiing machine. All the action of running, but without the impact.

Could you find one to borrow, if you don't want to join a gym?

[billybagpuss]

It's always worth talking with your doctor first.

If you are walking 40 minutes a day there is no reason why you can't add a little speed.

Why not try a C25K app and start off by speed walking the running minutes. The other thing I found, the plan usually takes between 8 or 9 weeks to complete depending on which one you chose. This is probably not realistic for you, as you may need 3 or 4 weeks on week 1 but that's ok. It's not a race its a system to increase your fitness and gradually but steadily is a much better plan than trying to push too quickly and lose motivation.

I have used the app a few times now (I complete it then stop and have to start again) When I first started I could only do 4 of the 8 runs, so when you start it don't worry, If you can't do a full minute to start with, its ok be pleased with what you've done.

The other thing you could do is ask for a sports watch for Christmas, its really helps motivation to see the small improvements and even when I've felt it was a bad run when I've got home I've found that I've maybe gone quicker over a section there are always some positives to take from it.

all the best x

[flowersonthepiano]

Thanks all! Billybagpuss I like that idea, I think I'll try that - speed walking first to see how I get on. I watched the thing on the tv last night where they gave people the age of their bodies based on various physical measurements - I dread to think how I would have done. Also, I am starting to feel properly disabled by my knees now, and that I could easily give up because of fear & I don't want to do that. I'm fairly sure shifting this weight is the best way to help myself, and I want to be stronger and more physically confident.

[FreeButtonBee]

could you try cycling instead? It's much more gentle on the joints and keeps your mind very active so the time whizzes by. If you can borrower a decent bike for a week or two

[juneau]

Given your weight and joint pain I would avoid too much jarring exercise until you've lost more weight. Running will just damage your knees and cause you further pain - I would try swimming instead as the water bears your weight and is much gentler on your joints.