The Running Thread

[Lanky Livingston]

So, I know has been discussed a little in the Hobbies thread, however I'd like to delve more into the science of running and what is good and/or bad for you when you run, the types of running shoes, etc. I'm hoping experienced guys like Henry can shed some light on some questions.

I always seem to get injured when I run. I get fitted shoes to help with pronating legs, I try to focus on technique, but I always end up getting hurt. Probably a good portion of that has to do with the fact that I'm overweight, but maybe not.

If you read 'Born to Run,' its obvious that we have long-distance running in our genes. As a culture we've gotten away from it for the most part, mostly due to the fact that we don't need to anymore. But there are still people in the world who run down their pray for very long distances to tire it out and kill it, which is what the human body is made for. I've read and heard different things from a lot of different people - some say the "natural" style of running shoe is best; little padding, get your feet closer to the ground. The New Balance Minimus line is like this, without being those goofy barefoot style shoes. Thin soles and ultralight shoes with a larger toe-box to allow your toes to spread. Some (including my gf, a physical therapist) think the cushioning is better for you and your joints, but articles like this one on Deadspin tend to disagree. http://deadspin.com/what-your-body-goes-through-when-you-run-and-how-not-t-451224847

Anyway, I haven't tried the Minimus style shoe yet, and the girlfriend thinks I'm crazy. But what I'm doing now doesn't work, so I figure what's the harm? Anyway, I was hoping to get some discussion going from those of you who are more avid runners. So....discuss!

 

[tshile]

The only advice I have to offer is to get an app for your phone that tracks your runs via GPS and records distance/time. I'm using Run Keeper which is available on android (maybe others?) It helps me in terms of motivation, and may help others.

I rely on the guys at the shoe store, so I can't really help with anyone else I am interested in what others have to say though, so +1 on the idea

 

[Nobody]

Running is horrible for you..........I keep telling myself to convince my brain never to do it again.

 

[Henry]

I'm now an experienced runner? Awesome!

Seriously, I'm a pretty casual runner. I go three days a week and run a race maybe twice a year. Not to mention I'm slow and my gait's ugly. This last race I just ran, where I was super-pleased with my time, I finished 5203th out of the 7240 male runners. 'Real runners' would probably consider me a 'jogger.'

So that's my disclaimer. That said, I have made pretty much every mistake a runner can make, so I know what to avoid. So there's that.

Anyway, I'm a big proponent of strong foot support. There are purists out there who say minimalist shoes are more natural and therefore better and whatever and that's fine. All I can say is that from my personal experience, shoes with a lot of support (and proper support) have given me the best results. Go to a running store ... not a place like Foot Locker or something but a real running store, and talk to the guys there. They'll watch you run and suggest a shoe. Once you find a shoe that works stick with that. Don't get cute. I blew out a knee once getting cute.

If you've got good shoes and you're still having leg problems (and you still want to run) I would suggest walking first. Walk for 20 minutes a day, three days a week, for the first week. Then a half an hour a day. Then run 2 minutes/walk 3 minutes for a half an hour for a week. Then slowly increase the running and decrease the walking.

When you get to the point where you can run the full half hour three times a week, you've got yourself a base. I had serious knee and ankle issues for awhile and I downshifted to walk/running for a couple months and that really helped. Even one minute walking for every 5 or 10 minutes of running helps a lot. Also, you gotta get out there at least three times a week or you won't build up any significant strength. Two times a week or less and all your doing is stressing your joints and muscles. And go on a good surface. For the love of God don't run on the sidewalk. Run on grass. Run a trail. Run on a treadmill. Run on the road and watch for cars. In that order. The closer to concrete it is, the more it's gonna crush your joints and/or give you shin splints. I usually run on a treadmill and sprinkle in a few road runs just to keep my legs honest.

And yes, losing weight makes a big, big difference. I've run at 210 pounds and 185 pounds and the difference is HUGE. Not only are your legs and joints able to take the pounding much more easily, but your speed and endurance increase. Running does NOT help you lose weight, by the way. Dieting does. The simple truth is you have to eat less than your body needs in order to lose weight. Running (or any exercise for that matter) just makes your body need more food. You need to get used to eating less or your just gonna eat more on your running days. Sucks, but there it is.

That's all I've got for now. If I think of anything else I'll be back.

Two days after my half marathon and I'm still walking down the stairs sideways.

 

[Burgundy Burner]

I have to run nearly every day of the week, but in the swimming pool with a vest on - two forty-five minutes sessions - just like this morning. That's actually a good form of running. Much easier on the knees and other joints.

 

[Henry]

Oh, and I strongly suggest keeping a running log. It really helps you track your progress. I use http://www.runningahead.com/. It's free and they have forums there with people who know a LOT more about running than I do.

 

[tshile]

I think running is awesome and I perviously had no respect for runners. after running pretty regularly now and getting up to about 3 miles at a time i can see the effects it has on my body. i used to think running a lot would detract from the effects of trying to bulk up by lifting weights, but i'm experiencing the opposite.

maybe i'm the exception to the rule though.

 

[Chris]

I'll be coming up to run the Marine Corp Marathon this October. Anyone else taking part?

 

[Elephant]

I'll be coming up to run the Marine Corp Marathon this October. Anyone else taking part?

I won't be running, but will be supporting a couple of friends as the run it as long as there is no Skins' game at home that day.

I am going to be taking pics of the girls while I am there...if you want a couple of images while you're running just get me your GPS info on the day of the race so I can track your whereabouts to get the images.

 

[Chris]

That is very generous of you! Thanks.

I will be running it with my son as a shared life-experience. It was his request and touched me deeply. An opportunity to memorialize it would be awesome.

 

[Henry]

That is very generous of you! Thanks.

I will be running it with my son as a shared life-experience. It was his request and touched me deeply. An opportunity to memorialize it would be awesome.

MarathonFoto.com works that race and will have photographers strewn about taking photos.

After the race they'll email you photos they've taken of whomever is wearing your bib number (hopefully you ). They're not great but they almost always at least have a shot of you crossing the finish line. They sell the shots at $20 each (I think) and you can get a disk (or download) of all the shots they've taken for like $80 or so ...

I'm notoriously bad about taking photos so I usually end up spending the money.

Anyway, good luck and congratulations on taking on the MCM! That's very cool.

 

[Lanky Livingston]

That is very generous of you! Thanks.

I will be running it with my son as a shared life-experience. It was his request and touched me deeply. An opportunity to memorialize it would be awesome.

Running a marathon would be a shared-death experience for me, LOL. Sounds awesome, and best of luck to both of you!

 

[Chris]

They're not great but they almost always at least have a shot of you crossing the finish line.

I'll have to remember to pin the number to my back...so I can be identified as I crawl across the finish.

 

[Elephant]

Umm...Henry! I feel like I've been **** blocked!

Chris, you are brethren here. If we can work out logistics, I will be sure to capture the moment for you and your son at no cost. When he's ready to get married, you can at least think of me.

 

[Henry]

Oh I wasnt suggesting an alternative to you, El.

The more photos the better I say. Especially free ones.

Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2

 

[Chris]

Chris, you are brethren here. If we can work out logistics, I will be sure to capture the moment for you and your son at no cost. When he's ready to get married, you can at least think of me.

I'll look forward to it, El.

FYI- My son is a 'Nole, currently finishing his sophomore year. I will actually be flying him from Tally to D.C. for the race.

 

[Elephant]

I'll look forward to it, El.

FYI- My son is a 'Nole, currently finishing his sophomore year. I will actually be flying him from Tally to D.C. for the race.

Then I might do his wedding free one day too...

Go Noles!