Marathon training...ref: no diets/weightloss

RUNN3Rmom
RUNN3Rmom Posts: 441
edited December 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
Hi everyone,

I am training to run my FIRST MARATHON on November 10th. I am not looking to lose weight through training (though having a certain number stuck in my head for the scale does want 10lbs. less than I am now). I am wanting to know from previous runners or others who have the insight on body mechanics if you think my body will "change" for the better even though I am not dieting to lose weight.

I am 5'2, short torso, longer legs, 124 lbs. I would like to lose a few inches on my waist and make it a little more defined than so square-ish (I know, I am making up words) and to lean out my legs. Do you think that will happen on its own while training?

I ask because we are specifically told not to "diet" and that I will need to be eating, etc and focusing on training...so I am focused on runs and carbs :)

Thanks for your help, words of encouragement, or just a bump!

Replies

  • Renae_Nae
    Renae_Nae Posts: 935 Member
    Yes...but you still need to watch what you eat. The reason being is I've known a few people training for half/full marathons gain weight because they think they need to constantly carb load and eat everything. lol. Be realistic in how much you burn running and how much you really need to eat and you'll be able to lose some weight while safely training for the full.
  • RUNN3Rmom
    RUNN3Rmom Posts: 441
    Thanks!

    I am still eating around 1300 calories and eating back my exercise/burned calories (except for today...I didn't run but I ate like I did). So I am not overloading on anything yet. When I get to higher mileage I probably will change my eating habits.
  • Renae_Nae
    Renae_Nae Posts: 935 Member
    Also, on longer runs gels or some sort of energy suppliment is needed for most people! Remember those have calories too :p But they are worth it during the races for sure!
  • bert16
    bert16 Posts: 726 Member
    Congrats on signing up for your first marathon! That's super exciting. I've only run one marathon this past January and am now training for my second this December, so am no expert, but I can say that I managed to lose >10 lb. overall while gaining 2 lb. of muscle while training for my first. I ate at a calorie deficit, though nothing too extreme; and just generally watched what I ate overall. On the days after long runs, I would eat a little more than I usually did if I was hungry. As has been pointed out, some people actually gain weight during marathon training because they use it as license to eat whatever they want; as long as you're mindful, I'm sure you'll do great.

    In any case, enjoy the journey that you're on with your training! Happy running. :flowerforyou:
  • RUNN3Rmom
    RUNN3Rmom Posts: 441
    Congrats on signing up for your first marathon! That's super exciting. I've only run one marathon this past January and am now training for my second this December, so am no expert, but I can say that I managed to lose >10 lb. overall while gaining 2 lb. of muscle while training for my first. I ate at a calorie deficit, though nothing too extreme; and just generally watched what I ate overall. On the days after long runs, I would eat a little more than I usually did if I was hungry. As has been pointed out, some people actually gain weight during marathon training because they use it as license to eat whatever they want; as long as you're mindful, I'm sure you'll do great.

    In any case, enjoy the journey that you're on with your training! Happy running. :flowerforyou:

    Thanks for your advice. I am going to stick w/what I am eating now (even though I am totally confused by the TDEE, BMI, etc. etc.) I am hoping that I will thin out and tone up :)
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