I’ve been getting a lot of messages and comments lately about how I started running and what that looked like in the beginning. Now that I’m nine years into my weight loss journey, it’s easy to forget just how hard those early days were. But I never want to lose touch with where I started because that’s what keeps me from getting complacent.
Starting at a Higher Weight
When I was at my heaviest, running wasn’t even a thought. Just walking was a struggle. But every time I lost weight—whether it was 75 or 100 pounds—I always had the desire to run. It was something I really wanted to do, but my body just wasn’t ready.
I remember the first time I really tried to run, I was around 350 pounds. It wasn’t smooth, it wasn’t easy, and honestly, it wasn’t even much faster than a speed walk. I’d go for a run and then be so sore in my knees and hips that I’d need two or three days to recover. That inconsistency made it tough to progress.
How the Stair Machine Helped Me Build Endurance
One of the biggest game-changers for me was the stair machine. I realized that using the stair climber helped me build strength and endurance without the same impact that running had on my joints.
I would run, get sore, then switch to the stair machine while I recovered. That cycle allowed me to stay active without stopping completely and eventually made running more manageable.
This is why I always recommend the stair machine for anyone at a higher weight who wants to run. Start with the stair machine, build up your stamina, and then transition to running.
How I Started Running
In the beginning, my runs weren’t structured. There were no races, no 5K plans—just one mile at a time. Sometimes I’d push for two miles, but five miles felt impossible.
When I finally started getting serious about running (years later), I realized I could have approached things differently. I wasn’t tracking my times or setting goals, but looking back, having a structured plan might have helped me improve faster.
Overcoming Mental Barriers
Running in public was tough. I knew people might stare or judge, so I did everything I could to block out distractions. I’d wear a hat, sunglasses, headphones, even a hoodie—whatever it took to stay in my own world.
If you’re worried about what people think, just remember this: they’re not the ones putting in the work—you are.
My Advice If You Want to Start Running
Final Thoughts
Looking back, I’m grateful for the process. Running has taken me places I never imagined—literally and figuratively. But it all started with small, painful, inconsistent runs. If you want to run, start where you are. Use tools like the stair machine to build your base. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to take that first step.
