So I’m quite overweight and have found C25K pretty tough going but was thrilled to complete it. I’ve been continuing to just run 30 minute consolidation run for the last couple of weeks but I’m still finding it so hard and so many aches and pains that it’s really not enjoyable and I’m starting to dread going out for a run.
I love that my fitness has improved so much and it’s been a real eye opener trying other activities that used to wear me out like cycling and swimming. Had such a lovely bike ride yesterday and had no trouble with the hills and stuff like I used to. I think I’m just feeling that running is hammering my body too much with all the extra weight that maybe I can’t enjoy unless I lose some weight. I want to stay this fit or get even more so but haven’t been run a run since last week. Can I keep my fitness level up with less intensive exercises? Just pondering really.
Written by
Bumblebetty
Graduate
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Yes, of course you can. Biking and swimming are fantastic and if that's what you enjoy doing, go do it. C25K is about getting you active, it sounds like it's achieved that, but I really don't like that you 'dread' running, that's not right. You don't have to run for 30 minutes non stop 3 times a week... you can do whatever you want.
If you ever do feel like running again, forget about time and distance and just go for a run somewhere nice. Stop when you want, walk when you want, and enjoy it. I will say this though, you are still new to running, and it DOES get easier with time. But it's up to you Betty.
Cyclists are pretty fit and healthy too! The guideline is to do a minimum of 150 minutes of cardio a week... cycling, running and swimming can all count towards that. So cycling can certainly deliver the fitness. That said, as you seem to be looking to return to running in the future, maybe one run a week alongside the cycling would be a good idea so that you keep the legs conditioned to running and don’t have to start over from W1R1 again.
I did get my gait analysis done a couple of years ago when I was trying C25K so have good shoes but they are only half a size bigger than my normal shoe size and I’m having problems with numb feet and legs on my right side so wonder if they aren’t big enough. Am reluctant to spend another £100 at the moment though without being sure that’s the problem as my right hip feels off too.
I am stretching after every run.
I don’t do any strength training - not sure what to do without going to a gym?
I’m following advice on avoiding heel strike and things.
I just run around my village on the pavements.
I just find every run a real battle, my legs feel heavy, I’m super slow. Just feel like I’m dragging myself along. I’ve recently been getting stitch under my right ribs which isn’t helping.
I’ve just been out for a run now and it was a bit better than last week so maybe a few days off has done me good. I think I’ll try mixing it up a bit and not obsessing on the running quite so much and maybe once I’ve lost a bit more weight I’ll find it easier.
Have you tried running on grass or trails........it will greatly reduce impact. Getting into beautiful natural surroundings lifts the spirits better than trudging urban streets.
Heavy legs can be symptomatic of poor hydration. You need to drink between 2 to 3 litres of fluid each and every day, whether running or not.
I have the greatest respect for overweight runners............the idea of carrying extra pounds or even stones when running sounds like a nightmare, but it will get easier as you get fitter.
Have a break from running every now and then..........it should not be a tyranny.
After graduation I always say running is yours to do whatever you want with it.
Try a bit of Niko Niko or “ jeffing” to see if that suits you more. Some find that the walk breaks are more likeable after graduation. It is all still running.
I’ve been running 3 times a week since I finished c25k 2 years ago. Up until November I was carrying an extra 2.5 stone. Since November I have lost just over 2 stone by working on a healthy diet. As a result running has become so much easier, I have naturally got 6 minutes faster for 5K and I enjoy running so much more.
But then again I’m not carrying over 12 Kg. I couldn’t run a Parkrun with a 12Kg bar bell.
Keep running, work on shifting your excess weight and I promise you will become fitter, healthier and happier.
Thank you, that’s very inspiring. I’ve lost a stone since I started C25K but I guess it’s been getting progressively harder running longer distances so I haven’t noticed the weight change. I will stick with it at least once a week while I try and shift some more weight and mix it up with other things and see how it goes.
If you are experiencing altered sensation in one leg, it’s worth checking up with your GP, as it may be indicative of something not right in your back. You could also self-refer to a physio (you can do this on the NHS), to get their advice. Good luck. 😊
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