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Is there anytime that running isn't the way to go?
My body type is ectomorph. I weigh about 135 but wear anywhere from a 2-6 (usually either a 2 or 4) in jeans. I've always heard and read that running is the perfect exercise because it works so many muscles at the same time. I recently read that it can make you skinny fat, which IMO I am, and I'd like to find something to help all of the jiggle. I also have diastasis recti so I think my stomach is pretty much toast anyway. I don't see how running would make/increase the skinny fat problem, but figured you ladies would have a better idea. I have access to a free gym at our church (it's actually a really nice gym, comparable to the YMCA we left) but there's no childcare so I could go after the kids to go bed but would lose motivation for that. I was thinking that I could possibly get up early and run around our subdivision before DH and the kids get up.
Also what makes a good shoe for running. We don't have a huge budget, it would have to be less than $100, but the lower the better (DH would love if I found something for $20, is that possible).
Re: Is there anytime that running isn't the way to go?
I LOVE running. Alongside a strict mostly vegan diet I've lost a lot of weight. I do mix in strength training but running is my go to exercise. I noticed in the beginning I would ache all over and I've had to strengthen my core to avoid back/impact issues.
Start slow for smaller distances and mix with walking if you like. It's a different kind of fitness and takes time to build up the specific strengths you need. I have all these funny little muscle fibers around my shins and my knees are so much stronger now including some bulging muscles that took a while (approx. 6 months) so that now I rarely have joint issues or shin splints which I got regularly in the beginning.
There will be issues initially but give yourself time to heal and work through them and mix in another type of cardio to give yourself a break every couple of days.
Getting fitted for shoes is very helpful, in a proper running shop. It will be costly if you choose to purchase them there but once you know your running form and any foot issues you can get them online for a lot, lot less. It's recommended you replace them every 500 miles or sometimes less. I get the absolute most out of mine. If you start getting pain after wearing shoes for a long time with no problem then you probably should get a new pair.
New shoes (even the same brand/style) take time to break in. Make sure you get a half or full size bigger than you need to give extra room in the toe box to avoid losing toenails.
If you do get serious about running be prepared to weirdly be extremely proud and strangely fascinated by blisters, callouses and bleeding or black toenails.
Running keeps me fit but more importantly; sane. Nothing makes you feel more zen than a run without losing your breath or as badass as reaching a new distance.
I think you may have your terms mixed up. "Skinny fat" is used to refer to someone that is thin or at a healthy weight but out of shape/does not exercise. Runners are in shape, so they are not "skinny fat."
There are exercises you can do for diastasis recti. Google them or find them on Youtube. If they don't work, you are probably looking at having a tummy tuck after you are done having children (most board certified plastic surgeons will recommend waiting until you are done having kids to have a FTT).
The PERFECT exercise is the one that you enjoy and will stick with. I hate running, and I have a really bad back. Cycling is my perfect exercise (mountain bike, road cycling, as long as it's a bike I love it). Crossfit is the perfect exercise for some ladies on the board, running for some, Zumba for others, weight lifting, swimming, etc.
I'll agree with the pp that you need to go to the local running store (not D*cks or Sports Authority type mega stores) and get fit for a shoe. I've never spent more than $100 on my walking shoes at a running store. Don't forget to budget $20 or so for a few pairs of good, wicking socks to wear with the shoes. The running store will carry them.
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Check out kettlebells. Specifically, "Art of Strength: Providence" or "The Kettlebell Way to the Perfect Body".
It's the only exercise that has "stuck" with me. I do it barefoot in my garage. I am amazed by the results as I am not one who likes to exercise.
Start a weight lifting program.
I've never seen my running shoes go on sale for less than $58 (and that's a freakish steal), so I think $20 is a bit unreasonable.
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Yes, definitely start strength training, that along with cardio (doesn't have to be running) is the best way to get rid of your jiggle. Don't be afaid of bulking up either, most women don't have enough testosterone in their bodies to do that. Muscle burns more cals than fat, so the more muscle you have, the more it will help to eliminate your jiggle.
Ditto pp about the sneakers. I don't think you can get a proper pair of running shoes for $20, that is dirt cheap.