Is running bad for the knees and joints if one is obese?

Answer 1

Yes running can and will over time wear on your knees. as the other guy stated it is a high impact sport. If you want less impact and can afford to get a gym membership, do so. They have a machine called an elipticale. SOS it is no impact and is better for your cardio than running. It uses your arms and your legs. I to am rather large male. 230lbs was 275lbs. Started the gym with max cardio and lost weight fast over 2 1/2 months good luck.

Answer 2

Running can be bad for your knees and joints no matter what weight you are. Extra weight on the body means your knees and joints have to support it still. I would make sure to do weight Resistance exercises as well as stretching. I used to do a lot of long distance running and was not over weight but still had tons of problems with my joints. Biking or swimming definitely takes the stress off of your joints but still gets the job done.

Answer 3

Running is a high impact activity, regardless of your weight, so it does take toll on the knees. But, when you run, you lose wight so hopefully, your knees won't be burdened for long, right? If you keep running, your body will adjust, and in the few months or couple of years it could take to get your weight down, your knees won't suffer too horribly. If its painful, get a knee brace in the meantime.

Answer 4

it can cause problems, particularly if your style is not efficient, try walking first, then walk / jog and slowly build up to you feel comfortable running, you will have lost a little weight before you start a full blown running regime and this should help reduce the risk of injury

Answer 5

I would say so.
Too much weight placed on the knees may mean knee problems later if not emmidiate.