I hate running, but...

[e.e.cummings]

Or do I think that they are the world's widest feet? I have pretty big bunions, and they cannot be operated because I have arthritis in the big toe. So I have a course of conservative treatment: night splints, physiotherapy, excercises to do at home. I asked my physiotherapist yesterday if it was a bad idea for me to run (I ran years ago A LOT, but my knee started giving me trouble so I eventually gave it up).

He surprised me. He said it was fine if done in moderation (walk 10 minutes, run ten minutes, etc.) Since running shoes are normally more flexible (not as rigid, say, as a hiking shoe), it allows the toes to flex and it gets the lubrication flowing between the toe joints, so it is a good thing for my issue. And because I am doing all of these strengthening exercises for my feet (which start at the butt and work its way down) I should not have the same knee problems.

I do need to find good wide toe box. I hear that New Balance is good for that kind of shoe. Shoe shopping today!

[e.e.cummings]

Sorry the above was not meant as a reply but a separate post...

[leathela]

I'm of the mentality that running should cause a little physical discomfort. If every run/ride is strictly comfortable, you're probably not working hard enough, and aren't testing your personal limits and increasing your stamina. That being said, there is a fine line between discomfort and true pain. True pain and repetitive stress/wear are what lead to injuries, which are obviously not desirous.

The key to avoiding injuries is following a regimen that is right for you, and benefits your goals and objectives. Are you running for your own enjoyment and to enhance your fitness, or are you running to race? If the former applies, your regimen does not have to be quite as structured as a training regimen. Start out running one mile. Two days later, run 1.5-2. And so on. Your body will gradually adapt to the high-impact activity; it's amazingly smart in that way!

If you're interested in racing, there are some great training plans (for both beginning and seasoned runners) to be found. I'd recommend checking out the Runner's World website, or coolrunning.com.

Also, I strongly encourage you to go to a running-specific store (or another trusted place) to buy the running shoes that really serve you best. I am hopelessly devoted to Fleet Feet; in my experience, the salespeople have been incredibly thorough, have analyzed my gait, and have listened to and addressed any of my concerns and questions. For over a year, I was plagued by IT Band pain. I had been reordering the same shoe that I'd worn for years, but it was no longer the right fit for me. Getting the proper shoes for me (combined with yoga, but that's another story) made all the difference in the world.

Lastly, I think it is important to remember that to be a runner does NOT mean that you have to do it every day. Cross training is wonderful. Running 3-4 times/week, coupled with cycling and yoga, is the most ideal set-up for me: I avoid injuries and exercise all muscle groups.

Good luck to you--stay with it, and have fun!

[northstar]

Just wanted to chime in and say that the first summer I ran (probably 3x/week), I was sore getting out of bed every morning. It's like my joints/etc. just had to get accustomed to it. Didn't run for six months due to pregnancy - started again, and no pain. It's a big adjustment for the body.

I'd say expect some soreness for quite a while...but I'm not a doctor!