Was it the running?

  • I finally lost some more weight--259 now. I was stalled for almost 3 months. Only change was started Couch to 5k 3 weeks ago.

    Thoughts?
  • When I started running, I saw big changes in my lower body and the scale dropped some. Different than the strength training.

    Course, now the scale is stuck again LOL!
  • I would bet!

    I'm the same weight I was in college - except I'm one size smaller (I still can't believe it). I exercised like a freak in college....but not much running. I'm quite sold that running (4 times a week or so) has really trimmed me down!!
  • Looking to start running again since my weight loss ground to a halt, ha...Can I ask how much/what you guys were doing to lose all that weight by running, or how you worked up to it? The C25k program for you as well?
  • gtech - I started the C25K program in April. I decided to do the timed version, rather than the distance version, since I really was a slow runner. So, where it gives the option to run a distance or time - I always did the time. I knew that I was unlikely to be able to do a 5K in 30 minutes after 9 weeks, so I formatted the program to work for me. ( Of note, it is also harder to train for running when you also strength train. )

    After 9 weeks, I could run a whole 5K without stopping. Took me 50 minutes to do it, but I was happy. I just did a 5K race a couple weeks ago and my time was 31:39 - quite an improvement. The great thing about running (as with any new exercise, really) is that you see great improvements rapidly when you first start, which is really motivating.
  • Lori, I am a super slow runner too, but I'm 51, that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it ....

    Running has to be the best fat burning cardio around for me too... I've just started running after a summer break, I cannot run in the heat... I've also gained weight over the summer even with biking instead and weight training, go figure too much wine, beer, BBQs me thinks

    Good luck with the running and keep us posted on your progress...
  • I started a running program last night at a running store. It is fun and it is very similar to c25k. We are to run a 5k race 10 weeks from now. There is a coach that helps us and we run together on the day everyone meets. I'm looking forward to it although for YEARS, I said I'd never run and had no interest in running.
  • When I was at my lowest weight it was from running.

    Unfortunately I stopped running for awhile and put back on a good 25 pounds from my lowest weight. I'm waiting to start running again until I lose some because I have trouble with my left hip and the heavier I am when I run, the more it bothers me. Can't wait to get started again though. Nothing seems to make the fat disappear faster than running!
  • Quote: I'm looking forward to it although for YEARS, I said I'd never run and had no interest in running.

    Nelie, I was the same exact way. I always thought I hated running - and I did because I didn't know how to train properly for it. I just went out and ran and felt like puking and hyperventilated. Well, duh - no wonder I hated it.

    I finally decided to face my fear. I figured I could do aerobics for 60 minutes, bike for several hours, there was no reason I couldn't manage to do some running. Used Robert Ullrey's podcasts for the C25K and voila!

    You will have a ball at your first 5K - it's great to have running buddies, too!
  • I used to think I'd only run...

    if someone were chasing me.

    LOL
  • Thanks for all the info, you guys! I'm inspired to go to the gym and start running program TODAY.
  • gtech, look at couch 2 5k. I think fiberlover uses a podcast to talk her through each workout.
  • It definetly helped
    Have you tried any swimming? It burns some serious calories when done properly.
  • gtech: I did my own version of C25K in September as I had run in the past but stopped. I did time and started only being able to cover 2 miles in 30 min. I'm up to about 20-25 miles per week. It really does jump start the weight loss and when your body becomes used to it adding hill workouts and speed intervals keeps things moving along. Good luck.