Is it a bad idea for me to run?!

That's a great question. You are correct in inferring that if you are heavier there is more impact on your knees. That being said, running is one of the most efficient exercises to get in good cardiovascular shape and burn calories. I think no matter who you are it's good to vary your exercise regimen to avoid overuse injuries. You might run a few days a week (running on trail or on a treadmill can lessen the impact on your knees), bike a few days a week, swim, etc. It's important to pay attention to your body as you begin to train. I've attached an article below on how to build up your exercise without developing injuries. Muscle pain due to lactic acid build up and exertion from day to day is normal and in fact means you are making progress in your fitness level, but pain in your joints should be attended to. You might also consider adding lifting weights to your schedule. Lifting will stabilize the joints protecting them from injury as well as build muscle. The more muscle you have to feed the more calories you will burn as you exercise day to day. Additionally lifting weights helps maintain your bone density as you age. Congratulations and best of luck as you commit to a healthier lifestyle. Be well!

http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/…

The exercise bike, rowing machine, or whatever ....
also if you can get into a pool, swimming is great low impact exercise.

and for watching what you eat (&drink) if you ever drink any of the "soda"
type products, even the "diet" kind .... DON'T! that stuff is bad for U!

You need to do good cardio type workout 4 times a week to get results.
There may be a genetic factor in your weight in that your mother is also heavy.
so you are fighting two factors, genetic & the fact that the standard AMERICAN
diet is loaded with fat & carbs & artificial flavor/color ... ad nausum (ew yuck!)

Running is a great way to get into shape. Just make sure you pace your self start by running a few miles per week and then work-up to running a longer distance. Make sure you work-out and eat properly to see good results. If it should be common sense that you should dress appropratly for the weather but make sure you have running shoes because if you dont thats how you get knees, foot and leg injuries. At first you will be sore but work through it and eventually it wont matter since it will become second nature. Its also important to consider where you will run. Running on a track as apposed to a treadmill are two totally different thing so becareful where you choose to run. If you need anything Im more then willing to help.

I'm about the same height but 2 years older. I started running in December and weighted 190 when i started now im down to 180. I ran in track so i was used to running.