Getting fit in the 40's

[Judeann]

I started morning walks a little over 2 months ago, to lose weight, get fit and help control diabetes that had recently been diagnosed. We now walk 5+Kms daily at a good pace. I am keen to start jogging. At what weight would be safe to start.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on starting your exercise regime.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

There is no safe weight at which to start C25k and if you have doubts do check out with your GP or practice nurse. If you follow the instructions and only jog at the recommended easy conversational pace, then you may not actually be travelling any faster than the brisk walk, but the body action is different and will trigger positive adaptations.

Do bear in mind that carrying excess weight does put extra loading on your bones, joints and muscles, so pay special attention to the advice about keeping impact minimal.

If you want to do this, then you can and we will cheer you to the finish line.

Enjoy your journey.

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

Welcome. Unless there’s a medical reason not to you can get started straight away. I marshal at a parkrun (I’ll be running it soon) and we have plenty of people that are way above the size you’d associate with a runner. We have one lady in particular who impressed me when I first saw her in July and continues to do so every time... she’s a short lady in her early 40s and was visibly above just obese... and she huffed and puffed around our hilly course running and walking, water bottles on both hands. I hadn’t seen her for a few weeks as I am only there 3weeks in 6 at best... and I really noticed a difference in her the week before last... she ran all of the course, down to one water bottle and looking a lot smaller... she even had the breath to give the parkrun salute of “thank you marshal” as she passed. This on a course where many seasoned athletic looking runners do some walking when they think we’re not looking. Saw her before the start last weekend and had a chat... she’s lost a couple of stones, more to come, but she can run 7k now, she’s happier and a lot healthier. She’s a running talking (at the same time) inspiration to many. She was also happy that we’d noticed the change. If she can do that, anybody can do this. You can certainly do this. Enjoy your journey.