Running When Overweight. Good or Bad Idea?

by Matt
(USA)


I am thirty pounds or so overweight, but I am otherwise healthy, strong and have no joint problems.

I keep hearing that running while overweight is not a good idea. At the same time I hear that running is great for losing weight!

Your beginner running programs have lots of walking and slowly build up the running times (which is why I really like them). I am going to try the 12 wk / 30 minute plan.

So, my question is, should I wait to lose the weight before I do your program or should I do the program in conjunction with losing weight?

Of course, I will just jog slowly (probably only 4.5-5 mph) if that makes a difference. I am just looking for your general, experienced opinion. I read so much conflicting stuff on the net that I don't know any more what advice to follow.
Thanks for your input. I really like your website.


running when overweight. good or bad idea?
Answer by Dominique:

Hi Matt,

Thx for contacting me.

Very intensive exercise is not good for anyone who is untrained, overweight or not.

That's why my beginner running programs are aimed at easing into the extra workload, building up very gradually and focusing on easy running.

So, in my opinion, running is very good for losing weight and very good for overweight people, as long as you take it easy on yourself.

Your body will have to adapt to the extra workload.

Beginners Running Program 3 is a good program, I hope it gives you the desired results.

Good luck!

Cheers,
Dominique

BRT Newsletter





Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Running for Weight Loss - Your Questions.



Like this page:


Share this page:


Like this site:


[?] Subscribe To This Site

XML RSS
follow us in feedly
Add to My Yahoo!

Helpful
Resources

  • Beginner Running Tips

    Are you a beginning runner? Then this is your best starting point. Many tips and running programs on offer, dedicated to you.

  • Running for Weight Loss

    Aiming to lose a few pounds? Get into the Running for Weight Loss section for tips and advice.

  • Running Training

    The Running Training section of the site has got the most articles. It is constantly getting updated with new tips and information. A must-visit if you are serious about improving your running performance.

  • 5k Running Tips

    The 5k is a great distance to run and train for. The great thing is that you can do it quite often and see big improvements.

  • 10k Running Tips

    The 10k is a real challenge. You need to run fast for an uncomfortably long time! Check out this section if you are strong of mind and legs!

  • Marathon Running Tips

    The marathon is a massive challenge. Proper training is so important! Make sure to check out this section if you have got your mind set on the marathon!




What's New?

  1. Master the 1.5 Mile Run: Proven Training Plans to Pass Your Next Test with Ease!

    Ace the 1.5 mile run test with the ultimate 1.5 mile run training plan. Training plans for different abilities and different lengths that help you achieve your best no matter what your starting point…

    Read more

  2. How to Improve My Running Endurance and Speed - 1.5 Mile Physical Test

    I am hoping to run 1.5 miles in less than 9:40 after a 0.5 mile warm up to qualify in the necessary time for the TA career I desire - the paras. I

    Read more

  3. How to Improve My 10k Running Time?

    I want to improve my 10k running time. Recently I did a training run in my tempo run zone and ended up doing 10k in 1h04'. I read your 10k program,

    Read more

  4. How to Speed Up My Running - Improving My 5k Time

    My average 5k speed is about 5.05 minutes, my 10k speed is about 5.40 minutes. I have tried all kinds of ways to speed my times up such as different

    Read more

  5. Running with a Limp

    Right now I am training for my cross-country season. I had to take a couple of weeks off due to an ankle pain and swelling on my left foot. As of right

    Read more

  6. Need to Run 1.6km in 7mins

    My name is Waqar and I live in Pakistan. I have applied for the Motorway Police. Their requirement is to cover 1.6km in 7 mins. I have never run before

    Read more

  7. Running Too Slowly

    Hello, a few months ago I started the Couch to 5K program. I'm getting very discouraged because I run so slowly -- it takes me about 14 minutes to

    Read more

  8. Another 1.5 Mile Run Test Question

    I am 30yrs old and currently approximately 55lbs overweight. I am in the process of losing weight for upcoming law enforcement processes of which the

    Read more

  9. Training for a First Marathon in Six Months Time

    I am 19 and not very fit at all. I have never done or attempted to do running of any kind. I have signed up for a marathon six months from now. I

    Read more

  10. Two Week Layoff - Half Marathon 9 weeks Away - Can I Do It?

    Ok, I'm 21 years, 140 lbs, and I've been running for a little over a year now. I had not been training specifically for anything, but I was at a point

    Read more