Question for the runners here...

[Superself]

Originally posted by: cobalt

Originally posted by: Atomicus
Give biking a try for less impact. OR shoes with better cushioning

Even walking is an alternative, it's lower impact but relatively you can get the same results. HOWEVER, if you want to run, lift weights as well. You can lose muscle if you push too hard and go into a catabolic state and start eating away muscle.

This is a bit extreme. Sure its possible, but generally this won't happen unless you are running 2x a day for several miles over a stretch of several weeks.

Running is totally safe as long as you listen to your body and get good shoes.

 

[sygyzy]

Originally posted by: quentinterintino
oh yeah, my buddy is a cardiologist/surgeon. He is about 65 and runs everyday... he has no joint problems and is healthy as a mule.

What does your friend run on, if not concrete? Does he have a track in his backyard?

 

[Garet Jax]

Originally posted by: Rkonster

Originally posted by: quentinterintino
I don't think elliptical machines or treadmills accurately replicate the motion/muscle activity that physical running does. If anything, swimming is a better alternative.

I cannot see how a threadmill has any different motion/muscle activity. You get a slightly easier workout due to lack of wind resistance, but that's about it.

That's not true. The treadmill is always moving so the motion for most runners on a treadmill is to go straight up (the floor is effectively moving). Somebody who is really running must propel themselves up and forward at the same time or they would be running in the same spot. Running on a road is a more difficult workout than a treadmill.

 

[FrustratedUser]

Originally posted by: Thraxen
I've recently started running in the mornings (about 3.5 - 4 miles) several times per week. Are there any negative/damaging effects I should be concerned about long term? Especially where joints are concerned. In other words, will me knees be screwed up when I get older due to the impact of running?

Your knees will be effed up.

 

[topslop1]

Right now I'm starting to body build. I'm eating 4,000 calories a day of non refined non junk food with nearly 200 grams of protein a day.

I lift upper body, I do 20 minutes of cardio, then I lift lower body, then cardio etc. I only do one a day - it's actually the bodyforlife plan but I've taken it a step further with the nutrition.

As far as the running deal - I would say that you won't have any problems.

You should lift as well - its a much bigger "high" than running IMO.

 

[Riverhound777]

Originally posted by: SWScorch

and yes, swimming will get you in better shape than running, but without the bone-building that comes from impact activities. Swimming is an all-over activity and really requires you to build muscle. I'm an all right runner, but I can't swim worth a damn. I get tired after two laps, so I know that the people who can swim 20 laps are in incredible shape.

I dont know about that, i can't ran worth a damn but i swim 60-70 laps a day, but i'm not in that great of shape (6'1 160lbs) it just takes time to get used to swimming just like anything else. My first day i swam 5 laps and couldn't hardly walk, but after a month i was up to 20-30 and feeling fine. Lately i've been running in the morning when its cool and swimming after work when its hot, works for me.

 

[OutHouse]

Originally posted by: quentinterintino
DO NOT run on concrete. That will eff up your knees in the long run.

no, it just accelerates it.


First how old are you? 20 miles a week isnt bad depending how old you are and what kind of shape your meniscuis is in.

Also depends on your posture starting with your feet. are you pronated/supanated? do you have Genavalgum or Genavalrum? there is a lot to consider if you really want to spend the time and find out exactly where your body is at right now.

 

[BladeWalker]

I get the feeling that one of the major factor for knee injury is improper form. It is especially relevant when you are tired and can't maintain good form. I guess it also depends on how old you are too. When I was in HS cross country we all ran everyday on various surfaces, including concrete. Not a single person brought up an issue about it. We were taught to roll on the balls of our feet when establishing a good pace. If you run on your toes or emphasize too much on the heel, too much impact can transfer to your legs. I'm not an expert by any means, but running on the balls of my feet build up my calves and relieve stress from my shins.