Help

[pinkporridge]

I need advice! I have been goin to the gym for little while and I really want to build up my fitness and stamina. I have never been much of a runner but I do want to start as its something I can do anywhere. In the past I have always had issues with my knees and ankles when I run and I hoped doing the couch to 5k would build up the strength slowly. I'm at the stage in the program now that I have to run for 5 minutes at a time. Physically (as in stamina) I can do it but th pain in my knees and ankles makes it difficult. My question is do I have to give up running? Or can I strengthen my stupid old woman joints to make it easier?

 

[Joe the meek]

Give up running and take up biking. Be it a stationary bike, road bike or mountain bike.

 

[AUFred]

Running is hardest on joints and back than biking or swimming.

 

[porterjack]

You must invest in decent running shoes

 

[Natasha]

All good advice. Part of the problem could be that you don't have decent running shoes...but it could also be that you're not running properly. I myself tried the Couch to 5K program and found that I had to retrain myself to run properly after suffering from shin splints a couple of times.

I do agree w/ taking up biking instead. It burns more calories AND is easier on the joints.

 

[pinkporridge]

Sigh! I guess I could swap it for the step machine.. It gives me a good work out and is easier on my joints. Makes me sweat like a bitch too! Lol!

 

[Natasha]

The elliptical is my choice of poison, for the most part.

 

[Veronica]

Elliptical is the DEVIL MACHINE.. but.. it works.

 

[dkwrtw]

Running is hard on your joints, a lot of pro athletes have replaced running with swimming exercises and trampoline exercises to go easier on their joints.