Strength Training While Training for a Half Marathon

by Debbie
(West Virginia)

I'm a 53 year old woman. I have been running for a little over a year. Running does not come easy to me, and my comfortable pace is about 13:20.

I also strength train 2 to 3 days a week with a trainer. I am training for a half marathon at the beginning of April, and my goal is just to finish, preferably without walking any.

I am getting up to 7 miles and beyond on my long days. Like I said, it is really hard for me to run, and sometimes I'm just exhausted all the time. When I run the day after strength training, my legs feel like lead and it is so hard.

I am wondering if I should stop the strength training until after the race. My trainer doesn't seem to think so, but I hate being so tired all the time.

You are doing all the right things as far as exercise is concerned. Maybe all you need is more rest. You wouldn't believe how much professional marathon runners rest. They pretty much sleep half the day. Consider adding a half-hour to an hour of sleep in your day if you can.

If this isn't possible, cut back a little on the strength training and see if that makes a difference. You can always gradually build in more running and strength training. Just don't underestimate the importance of rest.

Happy Trails - Coach Tief