Lifting and Running

Ready2Serve

I am trying to build my running endurance and do heavy lefts. My problem seems that I am killing my legs in the gym so much that I can't get my runs. My legs are just dead after for multiple days after my leg routines. I lift legs Monday and Friday. Any suggestions???

Ainar

Focus on one thing at a time. Either slow down on running and do heavy lifts or slow down on lifting and focus on running endurance.

VoicelessRide

I also just started lifting/running program....i a not an expert just a regular guy. Personally i do weights and running every other day and have noticed similar things....instead of expecting to keep running my normal distance i just now do around 5 miles

haroon_awan

What is your main goal? To become stronger or to increase your endurance? Are you trying to lose weight or gain weight? Are you in a caloric deficit or surplus? Focus on one for the time being as they are quite different. Pounding the pavement a few times a week and squatting once or twice a week is bound make you exhausted, especially if it's, say, your 1st year of doing so. This video might help: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wahFteoHj5Q

Remember, even elite level athletes have made their way up to their current level. It takes years and years to become very good at endurance and weightlifting. I do both as well, and I do a lot of sprinting and box jumping too. It doesn't make me better than the other guys and girls in my gym or track. It just means I have a preference to do the activities that make me happy but I understand that endurance and strength aren't a match made in heaven. I'm okay with that for now. Courage means doing something you are afraid to do. It doesn't make you better or more courageous to be a runner and a weightlifter. It makes you courageous to be able to recognise the issue that is preventing you from becoming stronger or running longer and then taking a step back from that activity. It doesn't mean stop altogether. If, for example, you chose a structured weightlifting program instead of track running, it's okay too go for a run with your friends, just remember your primary goal. You have years ahead of you to achieve success in both fields.

soldiergrl_101

I typically run first lift second...my legs program is so intense that after I lift I can walk right for atleast two days nvm run. So run first lift second

Cherimoose

My legs are just dead after for multiple days after my leg routines. I lift legs Monday and Friday. Any suggestions???

It sounds like you're doing too many sets. If your goal is fat loss or general conditioning, it only takes 4-5 sets for legs. Being dead for days isn't "fitness".

just_Jennie1

You're doing too much and/or going too heavy on leg day. With that said I always find that a light run when my legs are really sore helps to loosen them up and speeds the recovery process.