Is it bad to run every day?

goal30Lori

Everything I have read so far seems to say that a day of rest in between runs is best. I'm currently on Week 2 of C25k, and I'd like to go for a run tonight, but my regular day is tomorrow, and I'd still like to do that one too! I have a 5k in 9 weeks and I'd like to be as prepared as possible! Will a few extra runs here and there affect me negatively, or positively?

Thanks!

tmcowan

You should be okay if it's a just a few extra here and there. Make sure that you do take days to cross train.

goal30Lori

Thanks for the reply! Now - here is where I expose myself as a true novice, what do you mean by cross-training, exactly?? :blushing: I usually bike with the kids in the trailer on my off-days, and occasionally throw in a 30 Day Shred video. Should I do more strength training?

MrsNeuman

bump

themyriadthings

I'd like to know what crosstraining is too. I am completely new to this whole exercising on purpose thing!

gabrielled

You got it when you say that you are riding your bike on your off days. Cross training is to choose an activity that is different from your regular activity and uses a different set of muscles AND uses them in a different way. If you haven't yet, think about adding some resistance training (weights) to your workouts. Cardio (bicycling, running) alternating with resistance training will get you good results (run today, do weights tomorrow, and then run again or bike on the third day). It will also help prevent over-training. It is possible to have a muscle (or set of muscles [for instance, your leg muscles]) strong one way and weak another. Been there and done that and don't want to go back. I'm here if you have more questions, and most people on MFP will be willing to answer questions if you ask.

goal30Lori

Thanks for the reply gabrielled! I don't really do any resistance training, I don't even have hand weights! I've been using cans of soup for the 30 Day Shred video, LOL! Is the Shred a good example of resistance training, or should I invest in another type of video? There is a gym in my little town(2700 people) but it doesn't have the best hours, and no childcare, so anything I can do from home would be best!

Thanks again!

timbotina

Lori, I know I kind of get in a rut too, and never thought of it till Gabriel (Think thats her name) stated it about one muscle getting overworked.....you are so cute with the cans of soup....that will work......just look at Walmart and Kmart they usually have their hand weights pretty reasonable and you don't need real big ones....also, I know it is hard with kids to do much of anything thats why the bike works so good...but your local library may have some other workout DVD's you can loan that may have more weight training involved....or even go online and look up weight or circuit training...and maybe print up a workout.....hope this helps!!..... :flowerforyou:

goal30Lori

Thanks Tina! I always seem to forget to look for hand weights when I am out, LOL! I came across the FIRM dvd's and may give them a shot! I think first though, I am going to try and get more dedicated to doing the Shred, I've never kept it up for very long!!

gabrielled

Thanks for the reply gabrielled! I don't really do any resistance training, I don't even have hand weights! I've been using cans of soup for the 30 Day Shred video, LOL! Is the Shred a good example of resistance training, or should I invest in another type of video? There is a gym in my little town(2700 people) but it doesn't have the best hours, and no childcare, so anything I can do from home would be best!

Thanks again!

To respond. Hmmm. I've never done the 30 Day Shred, so I'm not sure. HOWEVER! Youtube actually has workouts! Be picky, spend a while looking around, and read the credentials of those who post. Also, if you have Netflix, they have workout dvds too. I live in a small town, but not THAT small. I did grow up in a town that small, though, so I know how limited choices can feel. The cans of soup will work for a while, and then you will have to move up. When I started resistance training, I wasn't totally clueless (I use to work out with the wrestlers in high school, because, HEY, good scenery!), but I wasn't sure about sets, reps, etc. so I bought a book. Take a trip to a bigger town with a book store, and browse. Find one that has good form demonstration pictures, and maybe even a dvd (the one I picked did), Reward the kids for being good while you shop by letting them pick a new book. I too am doing C25k, but I keep having my allergies kick my butt for a week, and then I have to move back a step. :grumble: But I'm going to keep at it!

Good luck, and just think about what an awesome example you are setting for your children!