Hi all! I've never posted in THIS section before!

I have just started walking/running and hope to work up to running someday soon.

I have some issues...first, I'm obviously quite overweight, and I want to do this without killing myself. I need ANY suggestions for easing into a running program. I am trying every other day it seems, and doing it in conjunction with some strength training (pilates).

Hubby taught me to breathe in my nose and out my mouth, which helps with the burning in my chest, but anything else you folks can add (even another breathing technique) would be great! I want to be a HOT JOGGER!! HA!

the walk/jog intervals are a good way to go, it woulds like your're on the right track. My only 2 cents would be to NOT get tricked into increasing your carbs because you're exercising now. Your body can and will learn to use fat as an efficient fuel for exercise - and you'll be in a slimmer condition sooner because of it.

My other 3cents (making a nickle) is to have an excellent quality pair of shoes - SOO important and to always always always pay attention to your body and your form. You can prevent injuries by maintaining good body mechanics.
Strength training such as squats, lunges and work for the muscles that dorsiflex your foot will keep your legs strong, help with knee problems and prevent shin splints - which are things that can discourage would be runners.

Meg

Dear Emeraulde,
I believe a walk/jog program would be good to start. As overweight runners we are stronger (haul more weight around) and burn lots of calories. I strongly suggest that you invest in a good pair of running/walking shoes. Your local running shoe store (with experienced staff) would be a good start. Another item is a good jog bra or two! Yes indeed you would be surprised what I see bouncing around out there.
You may want to go to Runner's World website. It has loads of information on running programs for beginners as well as experienced runners. Another idea is to join your local track club. Here you will meet other runners who share the joy of running. These clubs also have coaching.
As an experienced ultrarunner I have to tell you that I have received nothing but support from the running community. I believe you will experience the same. Good luck to you and please keep us posted on your results.
Regards,
Maureen

Hi Emeraulde,

Think about getting a copy of 'Body, Mind and Sport' by John Douillard. He talks about how to define what your pace should be (including breathing ONLY through your nose, in and out). If you have any burning chest sensation, you're going too fast. When you try to run too fast too soon, you're unlikely to stick with it. The mind and body begin to recognize "running = burning chest and uncomfortable breathing". For years I tried to run but always quit and this book really helped me. I ran my first 10K two weeks ago!

Good luck!
Teddys girl

I was into running several years ago and now i'm trying get back into running shape. Personally, I have to have cher in the diskman and a dorky sweatband to really 'enjoy' pounding the pavement. I find runnersworld.com to be a wealth of info+motivation. I am always tempted to be overzealous when starting to train for running and injure myself. Muscles and joints really months and months to get used to such a high impact activity.

Focus on the horizion and you will get there...and beyond.

I highly recommend purchasing a wireless heart monitor if you can afford one. They can by bought for as little as $60 or so. A transmitter band goes around your chest and the monitor is basically a wristwatch (tells time too )

If you know your Maximum Heart Rate (for starters you can use the estimates from simple formulas) then you can pace your walk/run based on your heart rate to make sure you aren't going to fast or too slow. I'd recommend keeping the heart rate in the 50%-70% MHR zone for awhile and only work up to the 70%-85% range after you've been at it awhile.