Running when Fat - Am I Too Fat to Run?

by Shelly
(Baltimore, Maryland)

I'm 42, 180lbs and out of shape. Can I start running, at my weight?


Answer by Dominique:


Hi there,
Thanks for your question about running when overweight.

In short, yes, you can start running. However, you are right to be conscious about your starting point. When you are overweight you carry excess baggage with you with every single step and as you run, every step causes a force at impact of about 2-3 x your bodyweight.





The more you weigh, the higher the impact.

This can be damaging to your muscles, bones and joints.

So the best way to start running is to start off with easy exercise.

On this website you can find several beginner running programs.

They are all based on a run/walk approach and have a very gentle build-up.

Now, you don't have to follow these programs to the letter. You can adjust them based on your own abilities. But do take note of the approach used, i.e.:

Combining running with walking

Slow and steady build up

Other pages that could be useful for you:

Beginner Running Tips

Running for Weight Loss

Hope this helps.
Best of luck.
Kind regards,
Dominique

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