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Runner - want to lose lbs/better shape before 1/2 training

babyblues31
babyblues31 Posts: 72 Member
edited December 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
Hi all! I am new to MFP as this is my first post!

I have been reading the boards and there are so many mixed opinions on this topic. I am hoping to get some help. I have been running less than a year, but now I typically run 4 miles at least 5 days/week. However, this year, I am doing some racing and will begin training for my first half marathon at the end of May (half is in August). Between now and when training starts, I would like to lose some more weight, maybe 8-10 lbs and tone up more. I know it would help me be a better runner with better times. I did a 5k a couple of weeks ago with a time of 27:04 which I didn't think was bad for the first one.

My question is this, I am currently doing Jillian Michaels Ripped in 30 two days/week and still running 4 miles about 5 days/week. Should I continue doing this for weight loss/toning up before the half marathon training, and then focus more on the running with less strength? I don't want to be counterproductive. I do not want to run a lot less because I feel like I lose my endurance. But my goal the next couple of months is weight loss/tone up.

Any thoughts?

Replies

  • brandyk77
    brandyk77 Posts: 605 Member
    I think the 30 DS is a nice way to get toned before your training starts. I would also suggest mixing up the running a bit. Try 6+ on the weekend and some light interval work during the week.
  • babyblues31
    babyblues31 Posts: 72 Member
    Thanks brandyk, coincidentally, my name is brandi k!

    I think it's probably a good idea to vary the running a bit too. I love the Ripped in 30 workout, I really see the change, especially in my arms, there is a lot of plank work, pushups, etc. I just need to burn the fat on the muscle!
  • BrianSharpe
    BrianSharpe Posts: 9,248 Member
    Don't quit the strength work - it really helps your running form and with injury prevention.

    Judging by your profile pic you're already familiar with runnersworld.com :happy: they have some great (free) training plans on the website. Mine calls for 4 runs per week of which one is my long slow distance (Sundays). I'm also cycling, swimming & doing strength as I have triathlon coming up this summer.

    Personally I wouldn't fixate on the weight loss before your training officially starts. You'll probably lose a few of those pounds just through training.

    BTW - congrats on your first 5K, that's a pretty smoking time!
  • babyblues31
    babyblues31 Posts: 72 Member
    Thanks! I was pretty happy with my time for my first 5K and yes I am a fan of Runner's World! Love that pic, looks kind of like me, when I get it better shape! I also have the photo on my desktop as my reminder!

    So maybe I should back off my running for a bit to 4 days a week and increase the Jillian (strength) dvd to 3 times. I also do pushups and crunches several times a week even if I'm not doing the Jillian dvd.
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