I started C25k (
Couch to 5K running program) when I was about 270 pounds. I'd been walking a lot before that, and wanted to go the next step (no pun intended).
First thing I did was go to a real running store and get proper footwear. I talked to them ahead of time, so they knew I was coming. I told them my concerns about my weight, my wide feet, and about the tingle-toes I often get when exercising in shoes. So they were prepared when i got there with good-stability shoes, in a wider width, and they taught me different lacing techniques that might help my tingle-toes (and did).
That done, I began the plan. I did week 1 three weeks in a row (walk 60 seconds, jog 30, and keep alternating) until I felt I could increase to week 2.
I was seriously amazed when I got to week five. I hadn't really thought I could do it. But after those first few weeks of easing into it, my body "caught up" very quickly.
I stayed at 25 minutes jogging for about 2 weeks, then got sick, and lost all my momentum. Now, with school started and my life more hectic than ever, I'm not sure when I could try it again. But I'm awfully glad I did. It gives me such confidence to look back and realize I could do something like that... to RUN at my weight.
That being said, when you're morbidly obese, there are a few things you need to keep in mind with something as strenuous as running:
* See your doctor and make sure you are okay for this kind of exercise.
* Get proper shoes.
* Go SLOWLY. I "jogged" slower than a walk for most of the program. If you get side-stitches or shin splints or knee pain, SLOW DOWN!
* Get proper shoes.
* Don't worry about having to go to The Next Week. Repeat a week if you feel the need to. Listen to your body.
* Get proper shoes!