RUNNING OR POWER WALKING?

Neeters1969 · Post by **Neeters1969** » Sun Apr 19, 2009 9:14 pm

Hello, I am a 40 year old woman who has just recently lost about 45 lbs .

I am about half way to goal an am looking to start an exercise program in order to help lose the rest of the weight. I am currently under a doctors care for the weight loss portion but now want to continue on own.

I am wondering if any one has any advice about either power walking or running. A couple of years ago I did start a running program but did not continue because of pain in sciatic nerve. (pre-existing condition) So now I am wondering if it might be a better idea to do power walking instead. Has anyone tried both, and do you hae any advice about what might be more benificial from a cardiovascular perpective.

cassiegose · Post by **cassiegose** » Mon Apr 20, 2009 11:53 am

I personally prefer running, but thats because dad was a track and cross country coach growing up so I've always been a "runner". If running has caused you pain in the past, I think I would be very careful about starting a running routine as an injury could make it so you cant do any exercise at all. Power walking actually isn't too bad (in opinion) as long as youre actually walking as fast as you can. Walking can be easier on your joints than running so that is definitely a plus. If I were you I would start by power walking, and maybe even find some good hills or a treadmill with a good incline to work on as well. Powerwalking up a steep hill is an awesome workout! When you feel like you're ready to try running again I was ease in slow and I would stop if it starts to bother your sciatic nerve again.

By the way... GREAT JOB on the weight loss so far! :)

Hope this helps,

Cassie

cherylhop27 · Post by **cherylhop27** » Thu Apr 23, 2009 8:00 am

I admire you for how far you have already came. I do both power walking and I run at least 5 days a week. Although I am really more into running I can tell you that when I have those off days where I just don't feel like running I will power walk and it really reaks reward. I am sore throughout behind and legs so I feel like even though I am a active runner there are always different muscles your using to every exercise. I say go for whatever you enjoy cause that is going to make you stick to it. Good luck keep me updated I'd love to keep up with your progress.

littleshelly · Post by **littleshelly** » Sun Apr 26, 2009 5:01 pm

If running causes you pain walk. The important thing is that you do it. If you are interested in fat loss add three days a week weight lifting to your routine and look into clean/balanced eating.

Boss Man · Post by **Boss Man** » Sun Apr 26, 2009 5:37 pm

Good for you on the weight, and I can't believe you are 40. I'd have you down as early 30's easy. Not trying to sound flash, but I would have thought that, if you hadn't listed your age as 40.

Shows what good living can do for people. You look really young and feminine, so good luck with the rest of your weight loss and well done

.

swanso5 · Post by **swanso5** » Wed Apr 29, 2009 10:49 pm

get fit to run don't run to get fit

if you can't run then don't, there's 1 million ways to burn calories

if your not wt training then start, if you need help:

www.uponlinetraining.com

Neeters1969 · Post by **Neeters1969** » Thu Apr 30, 2009 10:04 pm

Hello All,

Thanks for all your positive comments. I have started the walking programme this week and am taking it slowly. It'a been quite some time since I was active so I don't want to strain anything.

I would be interested in learning more about strength training and will check out some of those threads.

Thanks again

A