When did you start running (weight/BMI)?

I recently added spurts of running to my treadmill exercise.  Like you, I never saw myself as a runner.  As a matter of fact I have a heart conduction that makes it difficult but doc said I could try as long as my heart rate didn't go over 160.  I don't know what my current bmi is but I weigh 182.  Anyway, I run about 8 min out of 25 and I am adding to that weekly.  I also, run on an incline.  I have a friend who runs and he said short bouts are best so that's what I am doing.  I can definitely tell that I am working out more because if the sweat that pours off of me lol.  Good luck

I started at about 220 - about 100 pounds down. My doctor said not to run until I was under 200, it would be too much pressure on my knees. I've been running (slowly, slowly, jogging) every since. I love it.

I tried running. It was not for me. I can do it, but it causes lots of pain in my knees and SI joints.  I could barlely walk the next day. I tried it for a few weeks and it always hurt me.  I am 44 so not a spring chick. Lol

I do Zumba and beginner yogs stretches, much easier on the joints. 

I actually started to do intervals at about 360 lbs. I lost 180 lbs before I decided to have my RNY. I love the way I feel when I run. I am now able to do over 2 miles in 30 mins and weigh 280. I usr the C25K app on my phone. Running is not for everyone, but if u want to try it the app helps u start out slow and work your way up. 

Congratulations on your success so far! I just started learning to run recently. I downloaded the C25K app and have been using it at home. I am 270 pounds and 5'8" (BMI 40). One of the first things I did was to go and get fitted for a good pair of sneakers. My next step is to join a learn to run program that starts in April. I don't run very fast (no 7 min mile for me!) but I feel great afterwards and am enjoying the C25K program.

I think it depends on you and how you are feeling especially with knee issues.  Try a slow jog (3.8mph or 4mph) for 30 seconds then walk for a minute or two.  You can slowly add time to your jog.  This is the approach for an app called Couch to 5K  (C25K).  My sis is in amazing shape @ 130 lbs or so and she can't run at all due to bad knees so she does hot yoga, cross training, and other stuff.  So I really think this is up to you and how you feel.  Try not to compare yourself to others at the gym and feel good that you are at the gym doing great things.  Once you get started you'll be running 7 minute miles without realizing it.  Good luck!

First off! You're doing great! Second, do not compare yourself to people at the gym!!!!! I started my program a little over 5 weeks ago.  I'm not sure how much I weighed?  Maybe 210-215 and I'm 5'6.  You do NOT have to be a runner if you don't want to.  Plenty of fit people do other things!  but if you DO want to, start slow and work up to it.

First of all find the exercise you enjoy or you won't stick with it. 

I am 5'8 and was around 260 when I started. I did couch to 5 k. I would run at 4.6 on the treadmill. Many times I would repeat a week because it was so hard. Now I run 3-4 times a week. I cross train on other days to give my legs a break. In the beginning I hated running but I loved the sense of accomplishment I felt afterwards. Now I look forward to running and it has become my time to think when I run outside. I still don't enjoy running inside but I  do it because it improves my speed and many times is a harder workout.  I make up little games t see how long I can run at a certain speed to get through it.  

I started running about 2 months ago.  Presurgery I was 256 and I was probably 130 at that point.  I don't know if I could have run when I was heavier, because I never tried.  I was too embarrassed about how I would look.  You DO NOT have to be a runner!  However, I will say that it burns way more calories than walking in a way shorter time, and that's what made me start.  I don't have a lot of time to work out.  I work and have two young children, so I need to get the most "bang for my buck" with burning calories.  I too did Couch to 5K and I love it.  I think anyone could do it.  I will say that running outside is WAY harder than running on a treadmill.  I do both.  On a treadmill, I run about a little less than an 11 minute mile (speed 5.5).  I think (?) this is pretty good for a beginner.  I am now really enjoying running and actually look forward to it.  I know that in order for me to keep my weight off - especially the farther out I get and the more I can eat, I will HAVE to exercise.  I'm trying in every way possible to set myself up for future success, because I will die from disappointment if I gain this weight back!!  I love my new clothes too much!

WOW, thanks everyone for all the great advice and information!  I will definitely take it to heart and a. not compare myself to others, b. not think I have to become a runner but instead find things I love and stick with them, and c. check out the C25K app - it seems to be very popular!  I can't wait to get to a weight where my knees are happy with me!!!  

Now I am at the airport and I think I am going to walk the corridors a few times to get some steps in, before I sit like a bump on a log for 4 hours on the plane!

Thanks again...this site never fails to amaze me with great people, great advice, and general support.

Have a good weekend, all!