Hello, I'm glad to have found this group. Fitness is one of my passions. I workout 4 times a week. Two of those days is dedicated to running. I don't like running on the treadmill because it is boring. So I run on the hard concrete. So far I have had a few minor aches and pains in my knees that go away with TLC and glucoscimine (sp?). Anyway, are there any other runners with some advice for a fairly new runner in regards to must have running gear or helpful tips? I would appreciate any and all input.
Hi friend. Just found your post. Like you, I find running on a treadmill BORING!! Used to hit the gym 3-4 times a week 1 1/2 hour sessions of cardio and lifting weights. Not to mention the commute (10-13 minutes each way) and the few minutes it takes to prepare my bag, etc for the gym. Started my jogging/walking routine outdoors. I love it. Didn't think I could do it due to achy knees. So far so good. When I first start out my feet do ache a little, but I have flat feet. After a few minutes the small ache does go away. Seems everyday I get a little bit stronger in terms of leg muscles being used as well as my cardiovascular system. I jog most of the way, but I alternate with some fast walking. When I get home I will do push ups, ab-work, pull ups. I recently discovered resistance bands (I use the ones endorsed by Terrell Owens $100, but I find that the lower priced version would have worked just fine $50,), also do stretching, yoga and pilates. When I'm done I am drenched in sweat and I feel awesome. Can't wait to weigh myself 5-6 months from now. Diet is also very crucial. Lets see. If I can drop 20 lbs I would be happy, 25-30 lbs, ecstatic!!
When it comes to strictly running, I've read you should really invest in a decent pair of shoes, and they need to be replaced I think every 3-4 months depending on use. Think I'm going to subscribe to runners world to get more informed about other aspects of running.
I take glucosamine too and it really works for my knee [my left arch collapsed in basic, leaving me with knee pain]. I take the version that has MSM in it.
Wearing the correct shoes is very important. They need to match the kind of arch you have. I have flat feet [well technically one haha] so I have to wear motion control ones. Some stores are nice enough to label them but you may have to google a list. If you have a high arch, you should wear a cushioned shoe and normal arch's need stability shoes.
This info came from a physical therapist I saw a few times, and here's a link that's on the handout
runnersworld.com & roadrunnersports.com
Hey! I just joined this group and I love to run as well! If you are still having knee pain, I would suggest wrapping your knees with an ace bandage during your run or you can purchase a sleeve to wear for knee support. Appling a cold pack to your knees after your run will remove any swelling that may have occurred due to the harsh impact of the concrete, or any surface really. Remember to take care of your ankles as well! Wrap them up! They take most of the impact from your run. I do not run on hard surfaces, I love to run at the park! In the grass surrounded by trees :) If for some reason that is not possible, I go to the local college's track. As long as they are not having a track meet, the public can use it. If you must run on a hard surface make sure your shoes are padded, to help absorb the impact. Wearing the proper shoes is very important! Any athletic shoe store should be able to assist you in the correct shoe for you! :)
After you have been running for awhile and want a little more of a challenge, add ankle weights! Not to heavy at first, you can build up to it. Wrist weights for your arms. I like to, about mid way through my run, stop at a tree and position myself palms on tree at about a 45* angle and do some push-ups. Then continue with my run. A walk for a cool down and then some meditation under a tree ;)
Happy Running!!!! :))