Am I too heavy to run?

Question

I'm male, 185 cm and 73 kg. (6"1' and 160 lbs). I've been running 5 k for several months now. I'd stopped for a while but the best I'd ever gotten was about 22 minutes. I really want to get better and I was wondering if my weight is holding me back? I don't think I'm fat or anything but are 5k runners generally really light or what? I feel like I've reached what I can at the weight I am :(

Answer 1

When I started running I was near your height and weight and could/can run in 17 min.  Your weight isn't the problem unless you have some fat that your carrying (which I doubt).  Need to really want to get faster and work at it...you said you stopped for a while, this won't help.  With the right type of training and motivation you can at least get to the 19 min. range.   You have to be willing to put in at least 15-20 miles (quality ones) a week and for a long time and your time will drop!  Yes, most fast 5K runners are usually light I'd say around 130-140lbs. but don't let it stop you from training and out running them!  Good Luck

Answer 2

Man, I've only been slower than 4 people at my school, they have graduated, I'm top dog now and i weigh 145-140 just before a race...listen dude, My freind, he ran 21 an 20's and he weighs 175, you've only been running for months, it took me 1 year to hit sub 20, you want to get faster.... do some Abe work outs, the Abdomanal is core for runnin, when you run(shirtless) look down you abe's move(twist)  a good set will help a bit, and also try some yoga, it helps stretch just before a run, and on 5 K's ( the meets)  do a quick warm-up maybe 1-2 hours before the start, maybe a mile?  just work at it, find what feels right.  I don't know if you have extra work outs?  but seriously like I siad, A few abe work outs and push ups, can help.

Answer 3

I am 6'1" and 155lbs ish.  I don't think you are too heavy to run.  I think the people at the top might be lighter than you, but 160 is not too heavy to run.  Just keep training, you'll get better.  Also, a lot of it is mental as well.  Train you mind as well as your body, and you'll improve.  Make sure you tone the right muscles, too.

I hope this helps.

Answer 4

dude,

my junior year in high school i was 5"10' and 170 lbs. I was still able to run 16 mins in a 5k

just run and dont stop or slow down.

Answer 5

you are perfect for running

Answer 6

6"1' 160lbs... you sound like a twig... perfect for running

Answer 7

u really cant be too heavy to run. yeah it does help if u have a nice body, but the weight could just be muscle (muscle weighs more than fat) and if u run 5k in 22 minutes... thats great! good luck in running and dont give up

Answer 8

no u sound perfect for running....you have to keep running and have faith in youself to improver your tme!! goodluck

Answer 9

no ,

just keep running the way you are,

and eventually , your muscles will become stronger and you will gain more momentum.

stop worrying about it , :P