World's worst runner! Help!!!?

Question

I am a 35 year old male, 6 foot 185 pounds. Not over weight not under weight just an average guy. However my biggest problem is I CANT RUN. I really would love to be able to just get up and run 5 miles for fun and exercise. I can barely make it 1 block. I was a catcher in baseball for 15 years so my knees really hurt when I run and my cardio is terrible. Any suggestions. Please help I want to get in shape for myself, my wife and my children.

Answer 1

Well, from a 49 year old guy that only started running 2 years ago; If I can do it you can do it. I WAS overweight. I began dieting and then walking for execise. I slowly started introducing running along with my walking. At first it was only 1/4 of a mile and I thought how in the h**l does anyone get any enjoyment out of this? I just kept at it. I experienced shin splints, swollen arches, and achiles tendenitus (don't know if I spelled that correctly) I backed off when I hurt real bad but I mostly ran thru the minor aches and pains. I don't suggest that to anyone but it worked for me. Just force yourself to run a little at a time, gradually building up distance or milage. Set your sights on land marks and say to yourself " next time I am going to run to the first driveway past that utility pole up ahead and then after you get comfortable with that set your sights on  the second or third driveway past the same driveway. Follow me so far? The stamina will increase. I was so proud of myself the first time I broke three miles and I ran my first half marathon last May. Running is fun but it can be brutal too, but the satisfaction I get after pushing myself beyond my limits is awesome. Keep it up and good luck with your running.

Answer 2

If you want to start running, I would suggest starting out slowly with walking.  Gradually build your pace up until you feel comfortable with a slow jog.  Don't push yourself too hard because you may injure yourself.  If this doesn't work, given the pain in your knees, you could try swimming.  It's a great no-impact cardio exercise that pretty much uses every muscle in your body.  Good Luck!

Answer 3

try riding a bike it will help with your knees and still gives you a workout!

Answer 4

its going to takes months. If you want to run 5 miles, get out there everyday and run 5 miles. If you can only go one block, go one block and walk the rest, if you feel ok during to walk to jog and walk, do that....you'll notice a difference in your conditioning  in 2 weeks

Answer 5

I am a 30 year old female, wife and mother of two.  I just started distance running around a year ago.  When I started I could not run a mile without stopping.  I now have completed two half marathons and plan to do my third this month.  I am not an expert on the knee condition but all i can tell you is get out there, get moving and don't give up.  You don't have to be fast, you can do walk/jog intervals.  Get a training schedule and stick to it no matter what, i can help you find one if you are interested, sign up for a local 5K to give you motivation and a goal to be ready for.  The first time you cross that finish line will be an amazing experience.  Also, you can include your family in your training routine if you would like.

Answer 6

I would try swimming instead of running if it hurts your knees, or if biking is ok on your knees going for bike rides. You could make it an activity you do with your family as well to make it more fun.