Am I overdoing it?

Cathalain
Cathalain Posts: 424 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
I have a monthly "walk/run" fitness event being sponsored by my workplace today - it's basically your choice of walking or running a 5K on a pre-determined route. I'm definitely walking it because it's one of the things I look forward to every month!

Today is (was?) also my scheduled gym day. I don't know if I should do the 5K walk, then go to the gym afterward, or not. I'm concerned that it may be too much for me at one time. Some pertinent information: I work out for a minimum of 60 minutes each session, mostly cardio (some weights). I recently upped my cardio resistance on some machines, so I'm currently suffering from DOMS (it's not too bad but I'm definitely sore). My last workout was Monday evening. I was a complete couch potato before but now work out 3x a week, 60 minutes each time, so I'm not just starting out (I've done regular workouts for a little over a year).

Should I go to the gym after the 5K, or just take it easy and save the gym for tomorrow night?

Thanks. :smile:

Replies

  • DavPul
    DavPul Posts: 61,406 Member
    go for it. i'm fairly positive you'll live. at least 86.7% sure
  • WendyTerry420
    WendyTerry420 Posts: 13,274 Member
    I have usually found that walking can sometimes help DOMS. Walking also shouldn't prevent you from another workout. Walking is just walking, unless you are a newbie. When I first started, I couldn't walk more than a couple of blocks without feeling like I would die. :laugh:
  • lilliemelissa
    lilliemelissa Posts: 28 Member
    Agreed. Go for it! It's ok to be sore, and maybe this is just the push you need to take your fitness up a notch :wink: Have faith!
  • Cathalain
    Cathalain Posts: 424 Member
    Thanks so far for the replies. They're very helpful.

    One more question re: DOMS. I was told that taking NSAIDs (ibuprofen, etc.) after working out to ease the pain of DOMS was actually counterproductive due to the muscles naturally repairing themselves. (I don't see what that has to do with easing pain, but eh.) Were they full of bunk or is there really a reason why you shouldn't do that?
  • DavPul
    DavPul Posts: 61,406 Member
    save the pills for when you're actually hurt, not for when you're somewhat sore.
  • 3dogsrunning
    3dogsrunning Posts: 27,167 Member
    Thanks so far for the replies. They're very helpful.

    One more question re: DOMS. I was told that taking NSAIDs (ibuprofen, etc.) after working out to ease the pain of DOMS was actually counterproductive due to the muscles naturally repairing themselves. (I don't see what that has to do with easing pain, but eh.) Were they full of bunk or is there really a reason why you shouldn't do that?

    The swelling and blood flow to the muscles helps repair and rebuild it. NSAIDs relieve the swelling which may affect this. Or at least that was my understanding of it. It is legit from what I have been told, how much it really affects someone, especially the average athlete, I don't know.
    That said, even if it is legit, I still don't believe taking NSAIDs on occasion is going to cause a huge problem. I generally don't, but do make the odd exception.
  • 3dogsrunning
    3dogsrunning Posts: 27,167 Member
    save the pills for when you're actually hurt, not for when you're somewhat sore.

    I also agree with this.
  • msbeeblebrox
    msbeeblebrox Posts: 133 Member
    I would see how you feel after the 5K and re-evaluate.
  • kshadows
    kshadows Posts: 1,315 Member
    I think you'll be fine walking a 5K and then going to the gym, especially if you've done it before and/or walk regularly. I've run 3 miles and then hit the gym. I don't prefer to, because I'm tired. But you'll definitely live.
  • kimbux
    kimbux Posts: 154 Member
    Yes - do the 5k AND go to the gym. You will feel great - seems like this is pushing yourself outside of the comfort zone.

    Don't worry about DOMS - it goes away!

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