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Ask “Crazy Legs” — Getting Started and Looking Back

in the category: Fitness

Paul "Crazy Legs" Stofko answers your questions on over-pronation, how to get started and what it's like once you get there.

Paul "Crazy Legs" Stofko answers your running and training questions. Paul's a Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Running Coach and marathon/ultrarunner with degrees in Exercise Science and Nutrition. Check out our interview with Paul for background and contact information.

If you have a running or training question question for "Crazy Legs", email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Q #1 (#2 & #3): Just Starting Up

hi Crazy Legs,
here is my running / training question(s) :

1. According to my shoe store, I over-pronate. I've been recommended the Brooks Beast shoe as I'm a heavy over-pronator. Does over-pronation ever go away? Is there a way to fix it?
2. I'm a heavy guy @ 244 pounds. I want to start running, and would like to complete (not COMPETE) a marathon early next summer. Realistic goal? Stupid goal? Can I do it safely without injury?
3. Based on #2, whats a decent couch-to-finish line program without excessively adding mileage per week?

thanks!
—Troy

Troy,

1. First let define over-pronation: over-prontion, or flat feet, is a common biomechanical problem that occurs in the walking process when a person's arch collapses upon weight bearing. This motion can cause extreme stress or inflammation on the plantar fascia, potentially causing severe discomfort and leading to other foot problems. This problem does not go away, but orthotics can be designed with appropriate arch support and medial rear-foot posting to prevent the over-pronation. Shoes should also be examined to ensure there is a proper fit. Shoes with a firm heel counter is often recommended for extra support and stability.
2. Yes, it is possible to safely complete (not compete) a marathon with 6-7 months of proper training...
3. There are many marathon training programs near cities with large marathons. Training for a marathons in a group setting is far easier than training on your own. The thing you must remember with marathon training is your long runs are the bread and butter of any program. Without them your marathon experience with be an ugly one.

Q #4: The Long View

Crazy Legs,
What do you know now as an athlete that you wish you knew when you first started?
Amy Güth of Bonkless

Amy,
Interesting question. I wish I knew how difficult it is to maintain a high level of fitness and improve my performance year to year. When I began running 1993 I saw great improvements year after year. In the last 6-7 years I have to work very hard just to get a 4-5% improvement in speed, finishing times or performance. You have to be very dedicated (and maybe a little CRAZY) to do what I do.

What About You?

Have a question for "Crazy Legs"? .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) your running and training questions—we'll answer them in Ask "Crazy Legs". Paul's a running and fitness expert with great insight. Email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) and get some answers!

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