Running whilst overweight

Question:

Dear Katherine
I’m 16.5 stone with arthritis in feet and knee’s apart from this is there any reason why I couldn’t start running albeit very slowly. I plan to buy some good running shoes and some support bands for my knees so that they don’t become too stressed. My heart is fine. I had a test a few months ago. I do suffer from high blood pressure but that is controlled with medication. Running should bring this down shouldn’t it?
I look forward to your comments.

Kind Regards
Kay

Answer:

Dear Kay,

I would recommend that you start with a lower form of impact such as walking, cycling or swimming; at least until you have lost some weight.
Running would be detrimental to your joints if you already have arthritic changes and a support bandage will not reduce any “stress”.
You should consult a personal trainer with experience in weight loss to help design a specific exercise programme for you.

Kind regards

Angela Benjamin MSc MCSP
Chartered Physiotherapist

tafbutton blue16 Running whilst overweight