Too overweight to jog?

Question

I've been looking online into starting a programme for endurance and getting fit by jogging. But it says that you mustnt be overweight to do this.

How overweight do they mean? And whats the reason for this? As even though I am overweight and I am relatively fit and go to the gym 3 times per week as it is. I've never jogged though due to not being able to find the right sports bra. But now I have.

Thanks in advance for all the helpful answers (as I know this will attract alot of horrible ones)

Answer 1

The terms ‘overweight’ are dependant on definition, I’m over weight, (been obese mind you) I’m now two stone over weight, and I’ve been running from a point of being at least five stone overweight (I’ve lost seven stone in total). I run from three to five miles weekly and nothing has hindered me nor would I ever say anyone is too fat/overweight to jog. Overweight people can be fitter than thin people ironically.

Though it will be heavy on your knees, and not to sound ageist but if you’re older i.e. 30s/40s you’ve walked on those knees a lot longer and I’d be wary of running whilst overweight and take it very slow, and begin by walking to allow muscle strength around the knees to increase. Cycling would also be very beneficial before starting running, as it’ll strengthen the legs.

I think the main point is building up strength, and the programme is assuming an overweight person as a beginner (which might have been a better term to use) and since overweight they’re assuming inactive and would have more fat than muscle. All assumptions. You know yourself, your fitness level, you need to be the judge here.


There are also other programmes you can use, runners world Couch 2 5k program is hotly disputed to be really good, I can’t say I was ever able to stick with a program but I support the walk/run method completely, even at times when I thought I’d never be able to run three miles without stopping, eventually you will, and as I said earlier, five miles is the longest distance I’ve done, I hope for more, but I’m not rushing myself. I have my first 5k/3mile race on Sunday (race for life) looking forward to it, there might be a local one near you, some aren’t until July so plenty of time to get training in if you want something to aim for!

The first few weeks of jogging can be a chore, but as the above poster pointed out, it can quickly become an addiction, but what better addiction could there be?!

Answer 2

Well if you are relatively fit and go to the gym 3 times a wk, then you are definitely able to go jogging. You should just get on the treadmill at the gym and run right there...
I have seen overweight ppl go joggin all the time here, there are always ppl out walking and running....
I think they say for over weight ppl not to start off joggin prolly because they would get heart rate up to fast and have heart attack..
If you think you are still not ready for joggin, start out going walking, speed walking keeping the pace up then gradually turn to running with in a few wks.
Good Luck

Answer 3

I believe what they are referring to is your weight-to-frame ratio. Everyone's body frame can handle only so much weight/impact.

Jogging is an impact sport, so you don't want to have more weight than your active muscles can carry. Check with your doctor to see if you are fit enough to start the regimen you'd like.

I believe you will be okay, since you say you are fit and active already. You are on your way!

imo, it's just a disclaimer so they don't get sued by some stupid person who blames the program for what happens to them.

Answer 4

I would start off slowing, being overweight and jogging will take a toll on your knees. Start by speed-walking then move up to jogging after several weeks.

Answer 5

I have been running for ten years now, and sometimes train "newbees"; there's a lot to take into consideration if you're serious about running...................
here's mytop 5:
1. essential: absolutely buy running shoes at a specialist shop, where they can have a look at your feet and advise you on the right shoe for your feet;
2. as you already mentioned; overweight could be a problem, as with every step, you put about 2.5 times your own weight on your feet................
3. try either to lose weight and/or go cycling/swimming or something not as "damaging" for your bones/ your body.

If you're really uncertain about what it could do for your health, go see your doctor and ask for advise, a test or something.

Hope this helps..............

PS: please note that if you get the hang of it (=get past training for a couple of miles, which will take at least a month or so................) you are an addict ...............lol..............
(look for a training program, there are plenty of free ones on several running sites; almost every hit on the first ten results after typing "free running training" at google are worth looking into............)

Answer 6

No dont start jogging just yet,,start off with long walks. everytime you go out to walk increase your speed and the length of your walk...in time you ll be faster then youll see that you can handle a fast pace
only because your knees take all the blow and it will hurt in time so do this your legs and knees will build up strength to hold such shook to them...

Answer 7

Also include 10 grams regarding fiber to satiate hunger longer and prevent bloating from constipation.

Answer 8

One's body is usually burning up several energy, along with physical exercise allows you to burn off all of them swifter

Answer 9

forty five moments regarding fighting methods

Answer 10

thats not true, i was 227 lbs when i started jogging. i was not as fast as people who were smaller.. but i had no problems, the only thing i worried about was my knees, but i kept them soft and did strength exercise to help protect them....

Go for it!!! just pay very good attention to your body, and take rest days when needed...and take all pain serious. it might be a longer process but well worth it in the end..

Good Luck!! :o)