C25K VS Race walking...
 

Trying to decide if I want to start trying to run (Couch to 5K program) or race walking.

My Cons List for C25K

-I can't remember the steps for the C25K by heart so the only solution I have thought of getting an iPod to load podcasts to be able to follow the program.

-I don't have an iPod and wasn't planning on treating myself to one until I lost 25% of my starting weight...that's not for another 26 lbs... womp womp womp (imagine the Charlie Brown sound there).

-I walk outside. I don't have a treadmill and I don't have a gym membership. So if it's raining, I either need to suck it up and still do that days program, or skip it. I don't know if that's feasible in the program. I'm willing to look for a treadmill, but I don't know where to start! And then that would be the cost of the treadmill AND the cost of the iPod. GAH!!

-My knees sometimes hurt. They've gotten better since I've lost weight, but they still hurt now and then. I'm worried the impact won't help.

-Asthma!

Cons List for Race Walking

-I've heard if you don't have the proper technique, you could injure yourself very easily.

-I don't know where to start! I've watched some videos on-line, see above.

-I'd rather start the C25K program. I'm afraid I'll feel resentful towards race walking, especially if I do injure myself!


Thoughts?

I just started the C25k program (I am on week 1) and I really like it so far but I don't know anything about race walking. Keep in mind you don't have to get a pricey ipod I have seen cheaper mp3 players for $20-30 which is way more reasonable and then you can always upgrade to an ipod later once you reached your goal.

All you really need to learn to run outside is shoes and a decent sports bra.

Walk to warm up. Then jog until you feel like it's difficult. Then walk. When you feel ready to run again, run. Rinse, repeat for twenty minutes or so at least three times a week.

I know I don't need anything. But, the point is, I want to challenge myself with the C25K program.

Thanks for your input.

There is an article called No Fat Chicks stickied in the exercise forum, and in the article they recommend a glucosamine/chondroitin supplement as well as msm for joints. I have found this to be incredibly helpful with my knees. Personally I use Move Free Advanced (it has all 3 in one) but there are many others out there. Your mileage may vary but I have noticed a big difference. The thing is at least with MFA you have to take 3 twice a day for 2 weeks then 3 once, every day. It doesn't work well as a sporadic thing I've found.

If you don't want to invest in an mp3 player yet you could buy an interval timer. I have never used one so can't make any personal rec's but I have seen Gymboss mentioned positively on a few blogs. Though I love music when working out, it really helps keep me going, so I'd personally opt for an off-brand mp3 player for now and just upgrade it later. My brother used to have a Sansa and really liked it.

I thought the C25k steps would be hard to remember, but they really aren't bad at all. For the first few weeks, the intervals of run/walk are either equal running followed by equal walking or an interval of running followed by an interval of walking that was half the time spent running. I've found that if I look at each workout right before I head out and find a pattern, it's pretty easy to remember. :)

It's fine to skip a day on c25k. Just do the next workout on the list next time you go. A "week" doesn't have to be a calendar week - many people do one week of the program more than once before moving on. It's really a bit fast paced for true beginners. I made It through week 3 and have been doing my own thing since then.

As far as treadmills, they are SO much easier on my knees (and hips) than running outside. If you are serious about getting one, decide on your budget and start reading reviews. I had to up my budget twice to find something I was happy with. I spent $800 (sale price) on a NordicTrack T8.0 at Sears. They are great because they usually include assembly in the delivery fee. I have had it almost 2 months and am very happy with it.