Running - embarrassing question!

[CharChar91]

I am very overweight, I used to run and I'd like to get back in to it. Talked myself in to it today and went for a gentle walk/jog but oh my life! My wobbly bits bounce and it hurts. Super embarrassing I know but how do I get around this?
Boobs are contained in a sports bra, fine.
Apron tum and thunder thighs are an issue though! I wore compression leggings but I need more support somehow. Any tips/tricks please?
Please be kind 😅

You superstar. Love your attitude! I am a very slow runner who started running regularly late in life and have two breaks to have babies. When coming back, I have embraced the Runderwear range, wearing a vest and then a loose tshirt over the top.

In my experience it's partly your body getting used to moving again, pretty soon I was back to just wearing t-shirts.

You are amazing. See you out there!

Bless you. It'll get easier. In the meantime:

Thigh Support Sleeve | Premium Elasticated Compression Band | Pulled Hamstring, Strained or Bruised Muscles and Quad Injuries | Protects, Reassures and Aids Active Rehabilitation (Medium/Large) https://amzn.eu/d/0R4upz3

And

Belt, Pregnancy Support Belt, Back Support Protection, Breathable Belly Band That Provides Hip, Pelvic, Lumbar and Lower Back Pain Relief amzn.eu/d/caoEcDa

Don't be put off by the maternity belt. It's not a reflection of size, just abdo strength. As you run more your core will naturally improve and you can ditch it.

Keep it up. 💐💪

Sorry links not working but just google thigh supports (go for the wrap ones do you can adjust easily) and maternity belts (you won't need the full on one that goes over the top, just the ones that go under).

If you are that overweight, I would decide to stick with walking for a bit until you have lost some otherwise you risk getting seriously injured. I'm not joking.

Something else you could do to build cardio fitness is running in water/aqua fit type stuff because your body is supported.

Running is very hard on the body becuase you are having to carry all your weight forward. The heavier you are the physically greater the toll it takes on you is. Lose some weight first otherwise you may get injured badly.

2 pairs of leggings? Compression underpants?

Good luck. It’ll get better

Thank you all so very much!

I buy Be Your Happy Place leggings. They are very high waisted and come all the way up to under my boobs. Because the activewear leggings are also compression this means my wibbly belly doesn't bounce around uncomfortably. If you fancy trying them the owner always has end of stock in the "vault" if you type that into the search field it'll bring up the reduced price ones.

Finding the right running leggings was a game changer for me. There are other brands too. I know Rainbow and Sprinkles and Sturdy By Design do longer length leggings if you're taller...but I haven't tried them for their belly holding powers because I've found the ones I'm happy with and they're too expensive to try them all!

For what it's worth, I started running at size 22 and now I'm a size 16 - not a single running related injury and my existing issues have been much better since exercising regularly. If you listen to your body you'll be absolutely fine.

I have nothing useful to offer in terms of advice but just wanted to say @CharChar91 well done for getting back to running!

Occasionally I see someone who is clearly overweight out taking exercise & I always want to go up & offer words of support. I never would, as I don't want to appear patronising or nosey - I'm well aware it's none of my business - but I can't imagine it's easy given societal stigma. I have a friend who was in this position & she's had some unpleasant things said to her whilst out running which infuriates me. She's also met some other women running in the same area & they've got a good camaraderie going when they encounter each other.

I applaud anyone who is taking control of their health - good luck

I find Sturdy by Design the best leggings for holding everything in. The plain leggings in particular are very good at limiting my wobbles. Best of luck with your return to running!