Does anybody run?

Topic: Does anybody run? (Read 1630 times) previous topic - next topic

Does anybody run?

September 18, 2006, 07:47:54 PM

Let me drop some background info:

I started exercising (bike, walking) back in January or so. The main focus was to lose weight, as I gained a little bit in college. :wtf:
Since then I've dropped over 35 lbs.
I'm tired of riding my bike (cheap Wal-Mart special) and walking doesn't give me the aerobic activity that I need. I'm trying to lose the last 10-15 lbs. to put me in the correct "normal" range for my height. For those who don't know me, I'm about 6' 3". I weighed 245 lbs. in the winter and I'm at 208 lbs. right now.

Anyway, I started running to get the most out of the exercise, but I'm finding that my shins are beginning to hurt, as well as my knees.
Is there a particular technique to running that makes it easy on the joints?
What are some good methods or warm-ups for this? Am I causing any serious harm to my legs right now?

Does anybody run?

Reply #1 – September 18, 2006, 07:57:48 PM

Only when being chased by a dog!;)

I used to run a lot years ago but man my knees did not enjoy it at all so I started roller blading and that was way better on the joints and feet and a lot more fun. Some people are meant for running/jogging and others are not...you might just fall in the not catagory. I know a few people who have done damage from running as they probably were not wearing the right shoes etc. If it is bugging you now I would reconsider.

Does anybody run?

Reply #2 – September 18, 2006, 08:20:54 PM

You might try an elliptical trainer. The benefits of running with reduced impact on your legs.

Does anybody run?

Reply #3 – September 18, 2006, 08:49:53 PM

Run in the grass. Whats hurting is the impact of concrete/asphault. Try finding either a nice trail in the woods, or a nice field with halfway decent grass.

Does anybody run?

Reply #4 – September 18, 2006, 09:10:49 PM

Another thing (but impossible in your area probably) is to run in sand. It will strengthen your shins and ankles beyond anything. Go out and try it. You will be tired as hell and hurt in just a matter of 100 feet. Your ankles have to fight to keep your balance because the sand tends to give way when you step on it. You can run closer or further from the beach for different amounts of the effect.

Does anybody run?

Reply #5 – September 18, 2006, 10:15:56 PM

Well if you're not used to running, you're going to hurt if you just start it up. I've been running and active since I was 7.....so for the past 30 years I've been running in some form or another, so I'm used to it I guess.

Good shoes are key. I know when my shoes are done for as I can feel it. Perhaps try and find an athletic store where they actually have someone who knows what they are talking about and perhaps a certain type of shoe (support-wise) will work better for you.

I probably shouldn't be running myself after having 1/2 the inner meniscus removed in my right knee last summer....but I can't NOT do it. I tried other things and running is what's the most efficient for me. I can go balls to the wall on the road bike for 2 hours and come back dizzy, and still not get out of it what I can 30-45 mins running.

Take your time and ease into it.

Does anybody run?

Reply #6 – September 18, 2006, 10:52:03 PM

I find if I take my mind off the fact that I'm running the pain isn't all that bad.. it's mostly psychological.. Just take your mind off the pain and you'll be fine.. Ways you can keep your mind on other things is well just keeping your goal in mind. While you're running visualise how you want to look. Or, Listen to music while you're running. Or hell even think of modifications you want to do to your car. Also, Stretch like a mofookie before you begin, loosen up the muscles that'll reduce the pain.

Does anybody run?

Reply #7 – September 19, 2006, 06:12:44 AM

Thanks for the info, folks. It's all great stuff.
I have some Nike cross-trainers that I bought about one year ago, but I only wear them on the weekends and not for running. They're in great shape, and they seem to fit well. If it matters, my feet never hurt; even after running.
I stretch like crazy before and after running. I hope I'm doing it the right way.
Well, here's my plan:
-Maintain a schedule of running/jogging every other day, keeping at least one day for the muscles to build.
-Visit local parks/forests to run on the flat, grassy areas.

Does anybody run?

Reply #8 – September 19, 2006, 07:50:06 AM

Get some running shoes....cross-trainers are like alot of things "designed" to be a catch all...they are never very good for any one purpose.

I find I can let my mind wander when I run...my mind clears and after a while you get into a nice zone.

Does anybody run?

Reply #9 – September 19, 2006, 07:29:12 PM

look at some of your local high and state schools. we have a decent track that has a rubber mat. it actually makes running kind of nice, and i hate running.

Does anybody run?

Reply #10 – September 19, 2006, 08:59:37 PM

Yeah I run when the cops are chasing me!

Does anybody run?

Reply #11 – September 19, 2006, 09:08:23 PM

I haven't run since I blew all the cartiledge out of my right knee. Funny, I can walk forever (before I moved my daily walk was an 11 km lap around the lake), but running kills my knee within 100 yards. Instead of running I bought a nice bicycle - it gives a decent workout while being easy on the knees. Kinda ironic that it was a bike accident that resulted in the knee injury to begin with...

Unfortunately I haven't done any biking OR walking this year. Been too busy with renovations, but then again that's a workout in itself...