To want to go running when I weigh 13 stone?

[WTFs]

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 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

Can anyone recommend any exercises to strengthen hips and glutes? Would yoga do the trick?

I would be interested to know what exercises too @AWryGiraffe

OP couch to 5k is your friend here. But some decent running shoes, normally you'd be best getting fitted for them but god knows when clothes shops will reopen

Nothing wrong with running if you can but long walks and cycling are a safer option on the joints. Definitely get new shoes. Couch to 5k is a really good start point.

Disclaimer tho: I twisted my ankle on my first run after new year because I was pushing myself at a level I used to run at. Should have paid more attention to the pain. My dumbass is stuck inside lifting weights for now 😂

It was raining, muddy, uneven ground and I needed new shoes...lost 10bs doing BBG instead. So at least when my new trainers come and I start again I’ll have a bit more muscle.

@AWryGiraffe

Can anyone recommend any exercises to strengthen hips and glutes? Would yoga do the trick?

@AWryGiraffe It’s always good to mix yoga in with running for flexibility but weight training or spin will get quicker results

If you actually want to go for a run, go for a run. Wanting to do it is more than half the battle.

Key thing is to listen to your body - if it's been a while since you used to run, you may need to run/walk as opposed to run continuously. Take breaks to check on yourself and if your joints hurt after you stop moving, end the activity there as you're doing yourself a mischief.

I'm not aware of there being such a thing as trainers for heavy people. It's all about whether you over or under-pronate and whether you have narrow feet or not. A basic pair of trainers in a brand you know you get on with are going to be sufficient for gentle runs. You can save getting a fancy pair for when lockdown lifts and you can get properly assessed in a running shop.

waydownwego Has a good point. This is really good advice ‘I forgot’. I see now that just starting couch to 5k was the issue. I should have just gone for a few leisurely runs, without any goals, to feel out my body. Concentrate on what needed adjusted. Does it feel good? Does anything hurt? How comfortable are my clothes/ shoes? Is this a good route? Safe, good lighting, slippy? Does my phone have battery, has my sports bra given up the ghost? Am I holding a bunch of crap in my hand and need a new bag. Have I eaten right and drank water. Am I concentrating? Have I got a bloody light for my dog and not followed her through a half marsh field 😂

Obviously new runners don’t have to worry about ‘all of that’ just take a light jog somewhere well lit, dry and flat. Run a little walk a little. It will build up. Shoulders back, chest out, take it easy, even in running form is way more important than speed.....next time I’ll leave the dog at home...of course she loved it but I’m sure she would rather I was consistent. Good luck all 😊

@JamesMiddletonsMarshmallows

OP couch to 5k is your friend here. But some decent running shoes, normally you'd be best getting fitted for them but god knows when clothes shops will reopen

A lot of running shops are doing online fittings and posting out shoes, maybe give these guys a ring Accelerate, they are very helpful and knowledgable.

I’m 18 stone and run marathons. I have gait analysis every year to be sure I am choosing appropriate shoes. I don’t know if that is available now. Normally you just walk into ‘Runners Need’ or similar, and ask for it

I think I weigh about 13 stone (no functioning scales at home and I'd rather not weigh in Boots like I usually do - if they would even let me) and I can run at least 10km. I have weighed slightly more and run that distance too, but I think I'm a bit faster when I'm lighter. The only knee injury I've ever had was caused by a too ambitious yoga position, and although it still hurts occasionally, it doesn't seem to be made any worse by running.