Overweight, but Healthy, should I start now? - Couch to 5K

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Overweight, but Healthy, should I start now?

good_life_to profile image
6 Replies

My introduction, I'm 58 and at least 5pounds overweight. Should I be running given my obesity? I have time to get a routine together, but you receive so much contradictory information across the web.

So the question, apart from being 58 and at least five stones overweight, and on otherwise good health, should I start now or lose some weight first?

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6 Replies
2718281 profile image
2718281Graduate

Hi, I have a BMI of 37, I used to be 52... I decided to start with strength exercises when I started losing weight, I didn't feel my body was ready for cardio and I read that building muscle would actually help more. I'm feeling much better now so I decided it was time to start the c25k program. you need to check with your GP if they think this is right for you at this time, and obviously listen to your body and how you feel about it (when I started losing weight I couldn't imagine even brisk walking for 30 min)

Julessn profile image
JulessnGraduate

Lots of overweight people run perfectly well - it really shouldn’t put you off. However, if you have any doubts, perhaps contacting your GP would be a good start. If you find you get breathless with everyday activities eg shopping, climbing the stairs, then the GP can check you over and make sure you’re ready for your first run.

LeeU profile image
LeeUGraduate

Only 5 stone over weight? Seriously, the first time I did it I was over 23 stone, I took some brilliant advice from Oldfloss and just did slow and steady.

BUT if you haven't already done so, go see your doctor and get the ok to start.

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate in reply to LeeU

Lee.... where have you been !!!

Once you have checked with your GP, why not just give week one ago? If it’s too much, just do what you can and repeat until you manage the whole thing.

If you are sedentary at the moment you could start with a few weeks of 30 minutes walking, building up stamina before starting.

Whatever you decide, keep coming here for support and advice. Well done for taking steps to change your life👍😊

good_life_to profile image
good_life_to

I'm going to start with week 1 tomorrow - I'll report in. Thanks for all the replies.

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