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Original poster

To want to go running when I weigh 13 stone?

62 replies

WTFs · 04/02/2021 16:33

I used to run many years ago until health issues forced me to stop. So here I am 10 years later and 3 stone heavier, clearly I have carried on eating as if I were still running Blush Anyway, health issues aside, is it sensible to try some gentle jogging when I am this heavy, or am I just asking for knee problems? Are there any suitable trainers that might take the strain off the joints for example? I really fancy a run Sad

OP posts:
JohnMcCainsDeathStare · 04/02/2021 17:52

I'd break running up with some walking sections if you have had a gap. That way it's a way of easing back into it rather than making your body think WTF!?!?

Twinkie01 · 04/02/2021 17:54

www.asics.com/us/en-us/shoe-pronation-guide/ here]]

Twinkie01 · 04/02/2021 17:54

Never bloody works!!

Toocold · 04/02/2021 17:58

I’m just over 13 stone, I can run 10k, I guess it also depends on your height?

redsquirrelfan · 04/02/2021 18:02

Please do some strength and conditioning work too. People just run and then wonder why they get injured. It's important to build strength in the muscles to support your joints and helps you run faster.

OxanaVorontsova · 04/02/2021 18:05

I run and I’m 13st (plus a bit Blush)

Original poster
WTFs · 04/02/2021 18:09

Twinkie01 Thanks. I don't seem to suffer from pronation, and I dont have a flat arch so feet seem ok...I do land on my heel tho, always have done even tho I know it's not ideal. Never too late to work on it I guess. I do want some trainers with decent cushioning/the right firmness etc hence my trainers for heavy people comment

OP posts:
ConkerBonkers · 04/02/2021 18:12

Go ahead and do it but consider wearing compression sleeves on your knees to prevent injury, and definitely try to get proper running shoes too.

Camellashes · 04/02/2021 18:14

Go for it! The hardest thing is getting started, but once you get going, there will be no stopping you. You need suitable trainers whatever weight you are as everybody runs differently and depends on your gait. I'm flat footed so I'm a overpronator so I have trainers which prevent my feet going inward, so I don't have knee pain. Best way to check what type of trainers are suitable for you is to look at your footprint when you get out the shower, if you have a look under gait analysis that will give you some idea. Good luck!

WillYouDoTheFandango · 04/02/2021 18:17

I started C25K in October at 13.5 stone. I would recommend leggings with some compression as I found my thighs wobbled more than when I was lighter and my skin hurt.

Persephoned · 04/02/2021 18:19

I’m 13.5 stone and it’s never stopped me, I’ve had no knee issues and no one has expressed shock and horror as I jog past them.

I echo what @redsquirrelfan said tho - exercises esp for strength will help prevent injury. I alternate running days with yoga days and always warm up/down before and after running.

I feel much better for running a 5k. If you’re new to it or getting back to it I agree c25k is a good way to go. Go for it OP!

WaltzingBetty · 04/02/2021 18:24

I'm 13 stone and run 10k to HM distances.

The important thing for me has been strength training and particularly glute activation to reduce injury

JayoftheRed · 04/02/2021 18:27

I weigh a fair bit more than you, and run a couple miles 3/4 times a week. You'll be fine!

PyongyangKipperbang · 04/02/2021 18:27

My sister is heavier than that and we are doing Couch to 5k. She is finding a bit harder than I am but she is nailing it all the same!

Go for it, she is getting a lot of support and it really is making her feel better about herself when she can see the results already and we have only been at it a month.

CazY777 · 04/02/2021 18:59

I am 13 stone and run 8-10k 3 times a week. I'm not fast but I have no problems, my knees feel better since I started running again. I also used to run a lot when I was younger so I think it's easier to start up again if you used to run. I wear cushioned shoes, ASICS are the best for me. Go for it, just build up slowly and I'm sure you'll be fine.

letmethinkaboutitfornow · 04/02/2021 19:08

@WTFs are you considering get a pair of trainers and off for a 5k run? 😳

Or planning to apply some preparation and gentle introduction to shift the extra weight first, get your muscles warmed up and move your joints? 🤷🏻‍♀️

Lipsalot · 04/02/2021 19:25

I think go for it.

The only thing I'd say (as someone who is trying to lose weight) is that every time you put your foot down walking, 1.5 times your weight goes through your joints. So while being active is great, you need to be thinking about protecting yourself, whether that's through building strength and having good technique/shoes or by losing some weight. I'm not a scientist, I don't really understand why it's 1.5x but there you go. It shocked me recently to learn that because if you're not careful, you'll have joint issues 20-30 years down the line.

alltoomuchrightnow · 04/02/2021 19:37

Gosh, doesn't it depend on your height too ? At 13 stone I'm at my best really..about a size 12-14... but now I'm size 18 and about 17 stone..and yes I'd still run (well jog...)

UrAWizHarry · 04/02/2021 19:41

You'll be absolutely fine. Don't worry about the weight, the important thing is go get shoes which suit your gait. Normally this would mean a trip to a specilist but at the moment a good test is the wet foot test:

www.sportsshoes.com/support/running_articles/?kw=&cpn=1718907823&gclid=Cj0KCQiA0-6ABhDMARIsAFVdQv8pxVSOxLsG7Ea4fTES5COMm2U0B20nvT_FP8kjTMISwZ4wMxYCMjUaAnkpEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

Just build up nice and slowly when you start. Your cardiovascular will improve much faster than your muscles to start with so don't overdo it and injure yourself.

HappyFlamingo · 04/02/2021 19:43

I weigh over 13 stone and I run 7k three or four times a week.

MrsG30 · 04/02/2021 19:46

I started running again in May 2020 weighing 16stone (and I’m 5’3) I lost 2 stone primarily from power walking and watching my food intake. I got a 5k route down and just started walking it as quickly as I could, then jogged some bits, then when I felt like I could hold a jog for a minute or so, I started couch 2 5k.

Got 4 weeks into C25k and found out I was pregnant then the nausea hit and I couldn’t move for months 🙈😂

So if you’re worried, you could start with power walking and build up to jogging, but I think you’ll be fine with c25k- and if you feel any discomfort, stop jogging and walk 🙂

Idontbelieveit12 · 04/02/2021 19:48

I’m several stone heavier and have just finished week 2 of couch to 5k. My knees feel fine.

grafittiartist · 04/02/2021 19:50

I fluctuate between 12.5 and 13.5 and run regardless.

kilojules · 04/02/2021 19:52

@WTFs started running at nearly 15 stone before my weight loss.

Giving a break between runs(so not daily) will be less strain on knees, Achilles.

Re: trainers. Have you got a gait analysis store near you? It really helps to get the right pair of trainers for your type of feet, runs

Alternatively some of the shoe websites have queastionnaires to help narrow it down (Brooks do)

I found that Im an overpronator with a neutral gait. And of all the trainers I tried Brooks were the best for me. Specifically Brooks Adrenaline.

They are not cheap but worth it! I've had ASICS and adidas and none compare

Lovely1a2b3c · 04/02/2021 19:54

I can run reasonably when my BMI is 30 or below. I struggle over that but can still do it. So definitely go ahead!