Man Loses 113 Pounds, Runs Marathon – Are You Next?

Tom Hacker was a really fat guy. Weighing at 309 pounds, the odds of him living to 60 were pretty slim, and idea of him being able to run a half marathon was pretty ludicrous. Then he dropped over 100 pounds and then ran Detroit Free Press Marathon in under 3 hours. Admittedly, he had gastric bypass surgery which I generally think is not the best option for losing weight, but for this guy it worked and I will admit that.

Tom’s story should be an inspiration for anyone who is struggling with weight and wanting to get fit. If he came back from 300 pounds to get slim, those of you just struggling with a little bit of beer gut or some unsightly man-boobs can too!

But before you drag yourself outside and start pounding the pavement, make sure you have a plan. If you want to start running, then the Couch to 5K program is a great start, or if that looks a little too much for you then you can try out The Beginning Runner’s Handbook: The Proven 13-Week Walk-Run Program.

Also – check with your doctor. Running can be hard on the knees and joints, so you want to start slowly and pay attention to what your body is telling your. If you hurt, then STOP. Work with your physician on maintaining a proper diet and exercise plan.

And it always helps to have a partner. Tom was accompanied on his weight loss journey AND the half marathon by his wife Carole.

via The Windsor Star