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6 Replies Last post: Feb 7, 2008 12:07 PM by tugguy  
Click to view tugguy's profile Expert 40 posts since
Dec 14, 2007
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Feb 6, 2008 4:30 PM

other workouts for c25K runners


Tomorrow will be W1D2 of C25K. Should I be doing leg strength training on my days off? Should I not do strength training on the days I run? Have a goal of my first 5k in May, on my 53rd birthday, and would love input on anything I should be doing along with the C25K program. Thanks in advance.
Click to view juststarted's profile Community Moderator 768 posts since
Dec 14, 2007
1. Feb 6, 2008 5:49 PM in response to: tugguy
Re: other workouts for c25K runners

Tugguy - Do you do strength training now? I would really focus on the C25K plan for now. Once you graduate, other programs have cross training and strength training incorporated into them. Couple of things...

1. Get good shoes, if possible, at a running store. Not a sporting goods store, a running store. This will help you more than you know.

2. Go Slow.

3. If you have any medical conditions or are very overweight, see your doctor before starting

4. Join one of the groups on thie board and post often. There is so much support it is unbelievable.


Welcome to C25K. It is one of the most rewarding things you will do for yourself.

Click to view Michael.'s profile Community Moderator 676 posts since
Nov 9, 2007
3. Feb 7, 2008 9:26 AM in response to: tugguy
Re: other workouts for c25K runners
When I started C25K I thought I would keep on with my regular exercise activities but as the plan progressed I found I needed the recovery time between workouts. Some people do exercise as well and as long as it is non or low impact you should be alright, it just didn't work for me.

Mike
Click to view harrnjos's profile Pro 142 posts since
Dec 14, 2007
4. Feb 7, 2008 10:58 AM in response to: tugguy
Re: other workouts for c25K runners
For cross-training, listen to your body. Some people do extensive cross-training, and incorporate C25k as one component of a fitness program. For others, especially those who are just starting to exercise, C25k alone is more than enough exercise. It varies for everyone. Since you have been doing strength training, since before starting C25k, try keeping it up. See if you prefer to alternate strength training and running days, or do them on the same day with a full rest day in between.


As for strength training, I was acutally told that it's more effective to target certain areas of the body on different days of the week, rather than doing a full body workout 3 times a week. It gives each muscle group time to recover, and one isn't working the same muscles each time. For example, I lift weights twice a week. On the first day, I target the chest, shouders, and triceps. On the second day, I target the back, biceps, calves, and legs. I also have a seperate ab workout that I do.