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5/30/13 10:13 A

The bigger toe box works for me, cause I have an arthritic left big toe that sticks out. New Balance have been very good to me. But that is just part of why everybody is different.

Glad to hear your going in to be fitted. I always enjoy chatting with the salespeople - they are often runners and know so much!

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5/30/13 9:31 A

Thanks! I'll go this weekend. The last time I was fit (20 pounds ago), the salesgirl noticed I over-pronate a bit with my left foot but my right foot is fine. Weird. Anyway, I'll mention that to them so they can watch for it and let them know about the issues with the Brooks Ariels and the New Balance toe box (seems to be too big, but maybe that's good for running so I don't get the toenail issues?)

Thanks for the suggestions. :)

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5/29/13 8:31 P

I'm with Judi on this one! Insure that you get a free gait analysis which will determine the shoe right for you. Don't get attached to brand. I love ASICS. I started with the Kayano 17 recommended as I needed a strong structured cushioned shoe for my overpronation. I went to the Kayano 19 in December.

I just had another gait analysis done and found the Kayano had actually corrected my foot and now I will go to the 3000, a new shoe designed to fall between the Kayano and 2100-series. BUT if my foot changes again and another brand is recommended, I will try it out.

In any case, if someone put a shoe on you and it hurts....get the hell outta it!

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5/29/13 7:38 P

Every time I get a "favorite" shoe, they stop making them. LOL

You should not go on the recommendation of other people's favorites, as everyone is different and have different needs.

What you should do, is go into a specialized store that focuses on catering to runners, and ask if they would 'fit you' for a pair of running shoes so you can start running. Most running stores will have a return policy so that if they don't feel right, you can return them within a time period (like 30 days). Ask about that, because I did need to return mine when I first started running and had aches from the new shoes.

There are differences between running and walking shoes. Ask about that too while you are in the store. You will find the salespeople to be a wealth of knowledge, and very helpful.

I'm glad you are ready to try running. I never ran before SparkPeople, and now I can't imagine my life without it. I love to run.

Good luck, and let us know how you make out and what kind of runners they gave you.

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5/29/13 3:44 P

Does anyone have a favorite running shoe?

I really like my New Balance shoes for walking. When I went in to get fit for better walking shoes, I mentioned that my left foot needs a bit more support. They gave me the Brooks Ariel, which actually hurt my feet quite a bit because they dug in (I think the arches were too high). Also, they were really heavy and clunky. I hated them.

I was thinking about getting fit for a good pair of New Balance running shoes. Are there big differences between walking shoes and running shoes (weight, cushioning, etc?) I was hoping I could just use my walking shoes, but I feel like running shoes might be better for me. I still weigh close to 300 pounds, and I don't want to injure myself. I walk 2-3 miles every day, so my feet are in good shape and my doctor said I can run SLOWLY for now.

Suggestions?

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1/25/13 12:58 P

I have heard from a few of our team members, that a Zombie Run is so much fun! Congratulations on deciding to change things up to break a plateau. That's a good decision, any time you stall out (to change what you've been doing).

Although you are not new to exercise, you are new to running. New runners should go three times per week. The stress that running places on all the body's systems is enough to need a day of rest between runs. It is actually during this rest period that real growth happens, and you get stronger.

It doesn't have to be a day of total rest! Any other activity is fine, especially non-weight bearing (biking, swimming, etc).

I hope this helps, and keep the questions coming as you get farther into the process.

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1/25/13 12:07 P

So on my weight loss journy i never ever ever thought i would EVER start running. When i hit a plateau and stopped losing weight for a while i decided i might want to start running. but then i got INSPIRED!

There is a "Run for your lives" 5k race where zombies are chasing you!!! It is coming to my state in May so i started a running "program". I walk 4 minutes then run 1, i do this for about 30 minutes. Next week I bump it up to run 2 minutes walk 3.

BUT My Main Question is, I have so far done this routine 3 times this week and am wondering how many days a week should i train? I am a beginning runner but I am not new to exercise

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1/15/13 3:36 P

Thanks from Veronica the RUNNER

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1/15/13 9:11 A

I got notice and decided to read Judi's new post. In fact, I went back to the beginning of this thread and reread all posts including mine. First of all, after reading Judi's replies, I found that we both are on the same page and in the same mindset of our running lives. Excellent guidance.

I also want to say that I share my love of running and races with my wife, who is a budding racewalker. (I can't keep up with her walking pace!) We share ideas from those two different styles and have found that there's very little difference outside of pacing times. Everyone is a runner as soon as you get out there and just do it!

Stay strong, train, well, and you will perform well!

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1/15/13 7:39 A

You are a runner the moment you have two feet off the ground at the same time, while traveling in a forward motion.

So you, my dear, have been a runner for about six weeks now, and can wear that title proudly. Congratulations on getting to week six. You are doing fantastic!

Some folks think that you must run far in order to be called a runner. So is Usain Bolt not a runner, as his best distance is 100 meters. Others think, well okay he is fast, so maybe if I was fast, I could be called a runner. Well then, what about those folks out there running ultra-marathons, at 50 or miles in distance. They don't go fast, and they take lots of breaks, but I would definitely call them runners.

We often compare ourselves to others, and come up lacking. You are a runner. No questions asked. Hope you have a big grin on now!

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1/15/13 6:43 A

This has probably been asked before but when can I officially call myself a runner? Is it when I am able to run non-stop. I am on wk 6 of C25K. Thanks in advance!

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12/17/12 4:45 P

In this case, I will say don't do anything until you get Dr's clearance. In 2011 I ran TWO 5Ks with pneumonia. WIthin 24 hours of the last one, I went to my Dr then to the emergency room to a 5 day stay in the hospital! When I walked out I had done some damage to my immune system. I didn't do anything afterward until 40 days later! NOTHING is more important than your health. Obviously, I'm quite emphatic about this. Live to work out another day! All the best.


Edited by: MIRAGE727 at: 12/17/2012 (16:45)

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12/14/12 1:36 P

Did your Doctor tell you when you could resume activities? Please check with the doctor, as you are getting conflicting advise, and we can't diagnose online.

The general rule of thumb, is to continue running with things that involve from the neck up (headaches, sinus, sore throat) as long as you feel you are up to it. Sometimes when you are sick, you just don't have the energy, and you should never push your body when it is in recovery mode. And when the illness is below the neck (stomach flu, diarhhea, bad cough) the general rule of thumb is to not workout and truly let the body rest and recover.

Now those are for general aches and pains, not a diagnosed case of pneumonia. Try walking and see how that feels. Coughing isn't a bad thing, as it will help to clear the lungs. But again, you are in recovery mode, so do not over do things. It truly is best to check back with your doctor.

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12/14/12 9:11 A

Hi everyone! I guess I just need some confirmation that I'm doing the right thing. 4 1/2 weeks ago I came down with a cold, which turned into a sinus and ear infection. I was on antibiotics for 10 days. I did run a 4 mile Turkey Trot toward the end of that, because I was feeling better...but had developed a cough (BTW, I ran it easy, not "raced"). Well, a week later, I felt even worse. I went to the Dr., and was diagnosed with a lower respitory infection...possibly early pnemonia. I went on antibotics AGAIN, and finished them up 2 days ago. I rested, and didn't work out.

Here's the deal. I did go to a cardio dance class on Tuesday, and I did cough a lot, and I'm wondering how long I should wait to start running again (or heck, even walking!) Exercise DOES seem to make me cough more, but I'm not sure if it's a bad thing...loosing it up, etc. I'm getting a lot of mixed advice. Some people say that maybe I could be exercising, and some people are telling me to not do anything until the cough is 100% gone.

I do feel better even though I still cough a lot in the afternoon/evening, but I don't want to jepordize anything by doing too much. Its been over a month, and I'm itching to get back out there! What do you think? Should I risk it? Or are there other things I could do, to get some fitness back?

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11/27/12 6:48 A

Unfortunately, we cannot diagnose anything like that from reading what you have posted.

However, any time there is an injury with swelling, it's best to ice it for the first two days, along with rest and elevation whenever you can. (RICE - Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)

If you are still having pain after about three days, or if it gets worse, you should see your doctor.

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11/26/12 4:37 P

I was doing yoga last night and hurt the top of my foot. It is about an inch away from my leg toward my toes. It is a swollen area about an inch in diameter that is sensitive to the touch. Any idea what I have done and how serious it might be?

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10/1/12 8:40 P

Wow, with that much hill work, if you ever get on the flat you will truly be speedy! Just for fun, you should try that.

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10/1/12 7:49 P

No, no formal training program. Out the door, with my sneakers and ipod I went. My neighborhood is exactly a mile around on a steep hill. I started by jogging down the hill on one side, then I added the flat part. Then I worked my way up the hill over time, adding a mailbox or telephone pole at a time until I could jog the entire mile. Then I went through the process again until I could do two, then three. I can do three, but I do go very slow up the hills.

And, well, though I'm young at heart, middle-aged is more like it - will be 42 in a couple months. And just over a year ago I was morbidly obese, getting NO physical activity.

Maybe I should try start adding in a sprint from mailbox to mailbox every so often???

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9/30/12 3:29 P

Are you following any kind of training program? If you are, just completing the weeks is challenge enough. The first year is a very good opportunity to build your 'base', which is a solid foundation for increasing your speed or distance. If you are young, you still need at least six months, but if you are older, and the body needs more recovery time, then a year is a good time period to shoot for.

It doesn't mean you can't go farther or faster. It just means that most of the runs you do should be considered of the 'easy' variety. No speed workouts. Fartleks are okay (where you randomly challenge your body to run faster to the next tree, etc).

If you are doing a 5k training program, give yourself a few weeks once you've completed it at the last week's training program. Then go ahead and look for an 8K or 10K beginners program to challenge yourself. Following a program keeps you from doing too much too soon.

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9/30/12 12:07 P

Thanks for the response! I, too, feel like sometimes I could walk faster than I jog (especially up really steep hills) but I want to keep the momentum going, so I keep jogging. I've been telling myself the longer I do this eventually I'll get faster - but wasn't sure if I should keep challenging myself somehow.

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9/30/12 11:08 A

As a new runner, you don't want to worry about speed, at all. Naturally as you get into running, your muscles and body will adapt, and you will naturally find a faster pace. To push speed while you are still adapting your body, is begging for an injury, or even pushing to the point where it's too hard and you quit totally.

When I first starte, it was no joke that my run speed was at the same pace as my walk speed. When I was having difficulty advancing in my training program, I was encouraged to slow down even more. I didn't think it was possible, but I did it. I got through the program and am still running six years later.

Don't be embarrassed about any of your questions. We'll answer them all!

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9/30/12 10:41 A

Ok...almost embarrassed to ask, but here goes.

I'm a slow runner. But I'm moving! For losing weight/health benefits, does it really matter? Should I be pushing myself to get faster?

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8/9/12 2:33 P

You could try an app if you have a smartphone like the couch to 5k app. It will play your music in the background and beep when you are supposed to run/walk. It also tells you when you are at your halfway point. I'm sure they make one that you can program your times. Just a thought. I know a lot of people don't think of using phones for this.

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7/27/12 2:40 P

The only watch type devise that I have ever used, is the Garmin 301. It has been a wonderful tool, wasn't very expensive, and had a pretty short "online" manual to go through. It has GPS and heart rate.

So I am likely not the best one to tell you what may work, since my "devise" experience is very limited.

This would be a great topic for a new thread, and would likely give you a better range of answers, as more members read new threads than the older threads.

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7/25/12 3:29 P

I'm new to running and starting with the Galloway run-walk-run method.

I need to buy a watch with intervals. Since I'm spending my big money on shoes, I need this to be inexpensive (okay, cheap). Also, if it didn't come with an 80 page instruction manual that would be great. I don't need GPS, or Heart Rate. But I need something that will beep at me and has readable numbers (old eyes).

The Timex Ironmans seem like they would work, but I can't tell which models have interval timers.

I would appreciate some suggestions. Thanks.

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7/15/12 3:19 P

Definetely shin splints. Get fitted for shoes like everyone is suggesting. That helped mine a lot, Also make sure and stretch really well after a warmup. Even with all that I still get them everytime i run hills outside or incline on the treadmill. I ussually strap icepacks to my shins with ace bandages to my shins when i'm done for 15 minutes so i can do other things.

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7/13/12 12:50 P

The first time Iwas fitted for running shoes, I actually went back twice for different shoes. The store was really good though, and they weren't happy till I was happy. Their policy was that we could try the shoes for 30 days (indoors only like on a treadmill or track), and if they didn't feel right, we could return them. So even if you get fitted by professionals, it's still you who makes the ultimate decision as to whether they are right. If you are still experiencing pain in correct shoes, make sure you tell them that. They can suggest a different brand for you to try.

Judi

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7/13/12 12:04 P

Thank you for the advice. I have been fitted for shoes but I walked for the gait analysis instead of running, so that might have made a difference. I'll have to head back out and see what they can do for me.

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7/12/12 9:32 A

Yes, sort of. It sounds like you're taking your proper rest days and not over doing it, so shoes is the first thing I'd check into. If you haven't already done so, it might be worthwhile to head down to your local running store for a shoe fitting and a gait-analysis. They will look at the way you run - how your feet are hitting the ground, how your legs are moving - and can make specific suggestions for you about what kind of shoes you should be wearing and any adjustments you might need to make to your running style.

Best of luck!
I love your Spark name, by the way.

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7/10/12 12:56 P

I’ve tried to work through a couch to 5k program about six different times and have always had to stop due to the pain in the fronts of my shins. I’ve been told by other runners that they are shin splints. I have tried stretching and yoga, warming up slowly, and working through the program slowly. Each time I had to stop, though, because of the pain in my shins – not when I’m running, but when I’m not running or even working out.

I started the program again last week and did the two minute walk/30 second run segment twice. I did it again yesterday. I made sure to jog very slowly to help prevent the shin splints from occurring. My cross training has been biking and low impact jazzercise. This morning, even after not doing a workout, my shins started to hurt before I got into the shower. Right now, while sitting at my desk, they are aching just a bit.

Does this sound like shin splints?

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6/28/12 10:11 P

Hi Judi!

I'd rather do the 10K (lol), but for chocolate fountain at the end.... It does seem odd that they only offer 5K or 15K. I did finally find the 10K Your Way, so until I find something geared towards 15K, I'm modifying it and stretching it out to a 15K. Trying to follow the same pattern that SP used to build miles for 10K. In the meantime, I'll also try some of the sites you recommended.

Thank you!

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6/28/12 9:31 P

The longest training program available thru SparkPeople, is a 10k:
www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_artic
les.asp?id=599

If you want to go longer (and I love your goal of a 15k), you will need to look at another site. I have used the SmartCoach from Runners World. I've heard other people talk about Hal Higdon, FIRST, etc.

Try asking by starting a new thread in the team, and ask what people have used and what they liked about their plans. You will get a more varied response in a new thread. Good luck!

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6/28/12 6:00 P

Hi all! My bff wants us to run the Hot Chocolate 15K in December. Yikes! At most, I've run 6 miles. I'm a big fan of following a training program (I did c25K last summer). Does anyone have or know of a good training program for longer distances?

The only program I could find on SP was the 5K Your Way--or maybe I didn't look hard enough. Who knows.

Thanks!

Edited by: CHEEKY1000 at: 6/28/2012 (19:14)

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6/6/12 9:38 P

thanks Runningchic12, it doesnt matter how fast/slow or walk/run. It's something I will be seeing a specialist for soon I believe.

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6/4/12 6:32 P

My advice is to start out very slow. When I started running right after having twins I started with a warm up walk and ran about 30-60 seconds then walked a few minutes then ran another 30-60 seconds and walked for 20 to 30 minutes. I started out like that and slowly built up from there now I can run up to 11 miles with no walk break (haven't done it in a while though). Basically just run till you can't any longer and take a walk break.

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5/20/12 10:36 A

Trish,
Only when I walk or jog or waddle for a long time. Usually after 1.5miles(ish) and what I do is pause and stretch out my toes for a moment. I thought about taping the toe to another one just to try it out LOL I will have to try the rolling pin--maybe its something I can work out a bit more on its own. maybe

I re-asked the question on the main forum and Coach Nancy replied another Sparker in her office has same thing. Most times its a genetic predisposition and she recommended I go to a sports podiatrist (one who deals with runners of course).

HUGS and much luv back at ya :-*
Robyn

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5/20/12 3:05 A

Hi Robyn,
Just curious, does it curl under all of the time, or just when you run for quite a while? Either way gives me a dift idea:)

Hugs and love to you sweetie!!!
Trish

Either way, a foot massager (roll it out on a rolling pin if you don't have one) will help with the pain.

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5/19/12 11:51 A

Great idea Judi! Thank you!

P.S. how ya been?!

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5/19/12 11:23 A

You've got me on that one Robyn. I would love to see you ask this in a new thread. New threads get read by more people, and hopefully someone will chime in with their own experience.

I'm looking forward to seeing an answer too.
Judi

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5/19/12 10:26 A

As I have started walking again and moving forward and adding a bit of waddling (very slow jogging), I have noticed something---On my left foot, the toe next to my big toe curls under. I have been sized so I know thats fine. I have even switched socks thinking it was the sewing.
Any ideas on how to keep the toe from curling under---its quite painful after about 1.5miles out.

thanks team!

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5/4/12 7:53 P

What a great post to read!

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5/4/12 4:47 P

I just went though this forum for the first time. I went though the SP walk/jog & running programs, and highly recommend them. I did my 1st 5K in Nov 2010 and, since then 15 5Ks and 1 Half. I've embraced Jeff Galloway's training methods and trying to discipline to the pace. I'm learning more every day.

The thing is I love the questions and answers I'm seeing here. They are most valuable and also keep me in check. I'm also finding that maybe I've become a little more intermediate in my running stage.

I do want to state that I run to maintain my weight, stay healthy, and go for personal bests. I am very fortunate to be running at age 62 (on May 25) and I do appreciate the fun, emotions, and intrinsic values of organized races. No matter what, if you just want to start by walking, do it! You might just surprise yourself. All the best and I'm stickin' around here to learn more!

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5/1/12 12:01 A

Hi Marge. SparkPeople has some training programs that you can check out, and then go through them at your own speed. Here is a link to them:
www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_artic
les.asp?id=598

Walking is a great way to get started, so you're already on your way!

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4/30/12 11:27 A

Hi,my name is Marge.I am NOT a runner.But ,have always admired people who are able to do this exercise. I would like to try a slow run of maybe one block...any advice would be appreciated.I walk 5 days a week..2 mile each walk

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4/28/12 5:59 A

Kathy, when I went through the weeks, I also doubted that I would make it (to begin with). I was having trouble keeping up, and the breathing was getting very difficult. At the end of week three, I had someone on SparkPeople tell me to slow down, or I would never get through it. This was the best advise I got, as I was then able to keep going.

Even if you think you are turtle slow, slow down some more.

There is a talk test that we tell everyone to use. You should be able to speak in short sentences. If you feel like you could sing the national anthem, you could likely go faster and work yourself a bit harder. But, if you don't think you could manage more than short "yes" or "no" answers, then you are working too hard and need to slow down.

You are most welcome to repeat weeks as necessary to get through the program, and many people do.

You also do not have to be able to run the full thirty minutes to feel like a success. Many people do all of their running with a run/walk method, even after completing the C25k program.


And the question as to will you ever get faster? Yes, it comes with practice and time, but especially with weight loss. As the pounds go off, you will see a natural increase in your speed. As a new runner, right now speed is not something you want to concentrate on. Let your body become adjusted to the pounding that running places on all the body's systems. Your muscles, joints, and bones will be getting stronger as you use them, and you don't want to risk injury by pushing them beyond what they are learning.

It's okay to be turtle slow. Give yourself that permission, and celebrate what you CAN do. You are doing something awesome for your body (and your mind).

Judi

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4/28/12 2:20 A

Hey all,

I am very new to SparkPeople but I just finished Week 3 Day 3 of the zen labs C25K program on my ipod. I am a very large woman and extremely slow, when the voice in the ipod says "begin running" what I am actually doing is a sort of slow jog. I am worried that I won't be able to complete week 4 the way they want me to, as far as minutes of run/walk ratio. Here are my questions.........do I continue trying week 4 until I can do it before moving to week 5? and Will I EVER get any faster?? I am turtle slow.

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4/22/12 9:40 P

Stashing water...Brilliant...thanks will do this next time...thanks

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4/22/12 7:12 P

Absolutely not a silly question!

Water bottles can be a pain with all the sloshing. If you have a collapsible bottle just squeeze the extra air out before capping it, and that will help with the sloshing.

Another option is to purchase a belt that will hold small water bottles. Check at a sports. Store or running store.

If you do loops, you can keep your water in the car, and stop for a drink each time you run past.

And some people stash water bottles along their routes, or run in parks with water fountains.

Google "camelback", and you will see a really cool version of carrying water on your back, that you drink through a straw.

Lots of options, hope this gives you some ideas of what might work for you.

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4/22/12 6:57 P

This is a silly question...but how does everyone carry water while running or do you? I have been running holding my water bottle which can be a pain, but I ran today with no water and did better....What do you guys do?

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4/10/12 12:00 A

The day of rest is to help with the rebuilding of muscles. A quarter mile or less is likely less than ten minutes, so I'm not sure that you need the rest. Sounds like you are just testing the waters a bit. I think in that case, you are okay with back to back days, but as you start getting longer into it, then you'll want to start going to alternate days.

Feels good, eh?

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4/9/12 11:37 P

This looked like just the place to post a real beginner's question:
I'm actually not a beginner - just haven't run in over 2 years and now, well, I gotta get back into it! Anyway, I've just started back up and have been walking for now. A couple of days ago I added running short distances (less than 1/4 mile) into the walking routine. I know that I"m not supposed to run two days in a row - give my body chance to recover. But if I'm running less than 1/4 mile, do I really need to wait 48 hours? And if not, at what point should I be having rest inbetween my running days? I don't remember being at this point in my early running routines so I can't remember what I did in the past...

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3/28/12 11:35 A

Thanks so much! This will be very helpful! I loved my run outside this morning. I am usually an indoor run/walker, and getting outside was REALLY refreshing!

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3/27/12 7:30 P

SparkPeople has a whole resource section dedicated to running. Here is a link to a world of information:

www.sparkpeople.com/resource/running-cente
r.asp

Everyone is an "experiment of one", and often what works for one person doesn't work for another, and may even lead to injury. We need to experiment and find the right mix for our own bodies.

Saying that, this is my favorite set of stretches to do after running:

www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_artic
les.asp?id=1540

Judi

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3/27/12 5:46 P

Hi! What other workouts/strength training should I do in addition to my running program to help prevent injury and work the appropriate muscles? Thanks!

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3/8/12 10:29 P

Thanks. I think maybe they weren't really questions, rather a vent. I was disappointed to find out that the house we wanted to buy is under contract with someone else so we are probably staying put for a bit. The attempt at walking was an attempt to alleviate that disappointment. Didn't work today but I will try again tomorrow.

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3/8/12 9:26 P

I have some socks like that, and I never wear them anymore. They've likely been in my drawer ten years - they'll never wear out in there, but I might as well toss them cause I'll never wear them. You can get socks that don't bunch under, and they are totally worth it.

As for the mill, if you've done the adjustments as per the manual, and it's still doing it, try calling the company. There should be a number in the manual, or else you can go online and find the contact information there. That would annoy me too.

Oh, and never worry about 'silly' questions. This team is awesome. We answer anything :)

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3/8/12 5:05 P

Ok, this topic seems as good as any to post my silly questions.
1. What can you do about socks that bunch up in the shoes under the arch while walking?

2. I have a treadmill but the belt keeps shifting off to the side and rubbing on the edge. I have tried the adjustments on machine as suggested in the manual. Not helping. Do I walk crooked or something.

These two things today got me totally annoyed. I only walked for 10 minutes. Sigh.

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2/4/12 11:35 A

Thanks Judy. I'm training for my first Half Marathon, actually my first race since I was a sprinter/hurdler in college back in the late 80s. I've been steadily pushing upwards on a weekly basis for about month and well cut my weekly mileage in half this week and bring it back up next week if possible. Thanks again!
John

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2/4/12 11:04 A

Shin splints are often "too much too soon". Try to back off a little bit. Maybe check your shoes if it's time to replace them. The trainer is a good cross training activity, but it doesn't replace actual running.

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2/4/12 10:25 A

Shin splint! It appears that I've over-reached, thankfully I only have a sore shin to show for it. What works for you to get over it? Is the elliptical trainer a good substitute?

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12/18/11 3:58 P

First of all, I'm so sorry to leave this thread hanging. Somehow I got unsubscribed!

Extincteva - discomfort is okay, a soreness in a worked muscle is okay, fatigue is okay, as long as these things go away. Pain on the other hand, is a stop sign. When your body is becoming accustomed to running, there are all kinds of adjustments being made, and you will feel things that you haven't necessarily felt before. Muscles are breaking down and rebuilding and getting stronger, etc. So a slight discomfort that goes away withing two days is fine. Pain longer than three days should be looked at by a doctor.

Hope that helps.

WWE827 - So good to read that you were helped by a professional and now have no more hip pain. That is great news! Good luck with the remainder of your training.

Judi

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11/26/11 10:55 P

I'm definitely not the expert to answer your question, but I do want to update my question/situation. I was having hip pain, but ran into a trainer at the gym who is a running coach. She gave me some stretches to do- some on a foam roller; and a set of exercises I do on non running days to strengthen my hips (among other things)... No more hip pain!! I ran 5 miles today (and yes, I still run intervals- 4 minute run, 1 minute walk per Jeff Galloway training), and I ran a 5K race Thursday. I'm not a fast runner; with the intervals, it's about a 12 minute pace- but it's working for me, and I'm on schedule to run my first half at the end of February. And it's basically pain free- just building up endurance...

Edited by: WWE827 at: 11/26/2011 (22:57)

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11/26/11 1:35 P

I have a somehow connected question; I started running and I discovered that I have a slight discomfort in my hips, so I stopped my training. I could have run more, but I didn't because I was afraid that I could harm myself.
So my questions are: when do you stop running? what do you usually feel while running?
Do you run until you get tired or according to a schedule? And what do you do when you are not tired but you feel uncomfortable?

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11/4/11 10:22 P

I am all for you trying a half but being completely honest.... Feb seems too soon. Granted, I don't know a lot about you and your training so it's just an opinion. At least you are doing the smart thing and slowly increasing, hate seeing people try to increase a mile a week.

My big concern is the hip pain. It could be over training. I know it's hard to ease off when you have a goal but there are always races. Nothing is worse than getting injured and having to stop running all together. (I speak from experience and 6 months of down time to recover).

Have you been able to run a solid 5K yet? No jogging, just running? Make that a goal for Thanksgiving. Once you've hit that milestone, re-evaluate your half plan.

I am working towards a 10K in March and am able to run maybe 3 miles solid. Sadly, I have my doubts I'll get to a 10K in time and it's driving me nuts not pushing as hard as I can. There's another 10K in April and May and.....

Hope you do that half (be it Feb or another time) and have a great time doing it!

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10/19/11 11:15 A

I am a new runner ( I ran years ago, started again a couple months ago) ; training for a half marathon in Febuary. I am running (really jogging) 3 times a week; 45 minutes on Tues/Thurs (with a 3 to 4 minute jog, and a 1 minute walk). Longer runs on Saturday, also 3 to 4 minute jog with a 1 minute walk. I was having some pain in my left hip; I went to a running store and got new shoes. The pain went away for a couple weeks, but now has returned. I am increasing my distance slowly; stretching out when I'm done, I cross train on the other days- strength, walking and swimming. What should I do about the hip pain?

Edited by: WWE827 at: 10/19/2011 (11:16)

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