Marathon FAQs
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Today’s question…
Hi Joe, Thanks for your great info! I am currently spending a lot of time with weights as well as cardio and some running. The marathon training schedule looks so time consuming. I don’t want to stop my weight regiment, but I’ve read so much about the importance of having those 2 rest days a week. Is it possible to run a marathon and still keep up with weights without over training? I currently do weights 3-4 days a week.
Today’s response…
Thanks for your message. Its great hearing from you.
Your question is one I receive a lot and it is a very good one.
I also do regular weight training and I have personally found that it is very difficult — especially when the mileage increases — to continue with the weights in the same way that I would like.
Having said this, I do know some people who are able to modify their weight regimen and continue through their training.
The bottom line is to listen to your body. If you notice that you are not recovering as quickly as you would like you may find that you need to reduce the intensity of the weights. I find that I tend to get sick more often if I am over training, that I am sore, that I don’t feel like running or lifting and that I sleep a lot. For me, that is a sign that I need to rest a little more, to give my body a break.
You are right to be nervous about over-training. It can sneak up on your very quickly as you add mileage. With that, rest is so important that you have to force yourself to take time off and do nothing. Here again, really make a point of checking in with yourself and note any pains, extra fatigue or irritability (my wife is good at noticing this for me!). Take time to take it easy.
One of the points I make in my book, and something you note in your message, is that marathon training does take a lot of time. I tell people who are considering the marathon that training is not that hard, it just takes a lot of time. You really have to be willing to put in the time.
I hope this helps. Let me know if there is anything else I can do to help you.
Happy running!
Joe
