General Discussion Triathlon Talk » I have a Question... Rss Feed  
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2021-09-16 8:06 AM


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Subject: I have a Question...
I'm still not quite sure why I'm here but here goes, feel free to delete this if it's not allowed...

I'm 42 years old, 300lbs. Is it possible for someone like me to do a triathlon? I've been wanting to get in shape for a very long time now and a recent diagnosis has brought the need for me to get fit to the forefront. I used to run years ago (many pounds ago) and always suffered from shin splints, now that I'm even heavier I'm almost afraid to start again. What would training look like for someone like myself to get started? I apologize for the vagueness of my post, I guess I'm just wondering, where do I start as an overweight individual that won't have me injured in 2 weeks down the road. Thanks.


2021-09-16 10:47 AM
in reply to: Yoda_J

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Subject: RE: I have a Question...
There is a lot of things to break down in here, and I'm by no means a specialist in health, medicine or nutrition, so take my comments as with that in mind. But yes, yes you can. It will take work mentally, physically and emotionally. Getting into shape is hard. But it is very possible.

Start small and grow over time. That is how to progress without injury. You were a runner, so you have a starting point there.. but if shin pain is a concern, maybe start in the pool and the bike. Start walking. Walk as much as you can without pain. Remember that everyone's journey is their own, and try not to compare other's to yourself. Set a course to start easily, stick with it and make adjustments as you go.

You may start asking what factors led to the weight gain. Diet is a huge part of weight loss. It is very hard to out exercise a poor diet. Maybe start with some small changes there as well. Set goals that set you up for success... don't change everything overnight and burn out after a few weeks (or whatever time frame it is). We all know what is good and what isn't for the most part. Eat more veggies, eat less junk.

I am going to assume you already spoke to your Dr. seeing you had a diagnosis of something. But it may be prudent to keep them in the loop, especially at the beginning of your journey.

Also, you can pray about this. It helps.
Feel free to DM if you want more help.

Good luck
Justin
2021-09-16 2:00 PM
in reply to: Yoda_J

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Subject: RE: I have a Question...

The answer to your first question is "Yes" you can do a triathlon.  There are all shapes and sizes and all ability levels. 

The second answer takes more.  Obviously start small and build slowly.  You said you experienced shin splints previously.  These are somewhat less a result of weight and more your running mechanics.  The good news is if you're starting fresh, you can run differently than you did before and possibly avoid some of the previous pain.  

Start by getting some good, supportive WALKING shoes (maybe even hiking boots) and start WALKING.  15-20 minutes, building up to 30 or 45 minutes or even an hour.  In addition to just moving, most of us find it incredibly hard to carve out and protect training time, so that's the second benefit of walking.  While it may not be satisfying to walk the run portion of a triathlon, it doesn't make you less of a triathlete.  Plan a race strategy to finish within race time limits, or if the race doesn't publish limits, a little faster than historical back-of-pack finishers.  You can swim and you can bicycle even while avoiding the jarring impact of running.  

Once you've built a daily routine, considering hiring a running coach who specializes in biomechanics.  That person can coach you on form and technique that work for your body type and current fitness.  So, for example, we were coached in HS that shin splints are caused when your feet "slap" the ground.  Similarly, the impact of a heavy runner striking heel-first (common regardless of size) and associated injuries can be mitigated by landing on the ball of your foot.  A good coach can help you train without injuring yourself.    

2021-09-16 3:32 PM
in reply to: McFuzz

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Subject: RE: I have a Question...

Good replies above and I'll just add that there are a ton of BTers who have done what you're looking to do.  This site isn't as busy as it used to be but they're out there.

This will be a holistic journey of diet and exercise, as noted above, and maybe also about dealing with modifying behaviors and learning what triggers those behaviors.  Start small, set realistic goals.  Get good walking shoes and use them.  Keep posting here for feedback and share your journey. 

Good luck! 

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