Expert: Domenic Sica - 10/10/2009

Question
Hi- I am unsure if you can help me, so if not just let me know, but I am an overweight adult (5"8 and 200 lbs) and I am trying to lose weight by eating right and exercising. I also have varicose veins. I am wondering what you would suggest in terms of an exercise schedule. Would it be dangerous for me to run at my weight? Should I start off by walking? What is the distance you would recommend for me to walk/run? Any help would be appreciated.

Answer
You should start off walking and from there begin a slow pace of running over several days within the limits of your tolerance. Walking a quarter mile and then trying to run a quarter mile is a good start. I do not know if you are conditioned in any way going into this. If you are not conditioned, you may need to take it slow as you inch up the length of walking and slow running. There are many ways to do this so I only offer one such way.

Regards,

Domenic Sica, M.D.