Combining Bodyweight Circuit Training with Steady-State Running | Cardio 101 | Forum

1. Hi everybody. I have been trying some bodyweight circuits recently – 8 exercises done back-to-back with zero rest. wait 1 minute and go again for a total of three sets. But I love running too and I like to go three times a week for 30-45 mins. My goal is a slim, muscular look, but I'm wondering: will the above workout schedule of bodyweight circuits combined with running result in overtraining? I’m male, 44. I don’t like weights, and find the bodyweight circuits really ‘burn’ my muscles. I don’t do interval runs; just steady state. 

I have been a consistent endurance runner for 8 years, running countless half-marathons, 10ks, and 5ks. I also completed five full marathons, and this last fall was the 1st time in five years I opted to only run the half. I'm almost 38 (03/07), but I think I definitely hit an over-training period last year around this time.

I've also been a consistent weight lifter (10+ years) @ 3x/week. I decreased my running from 40+/week to 15-20/week, but kept lifting going, even increased it to 4-5x/week. Before, my hamstrings were constantly tight/aching and resting heart rate was as high as 210 bpm. I'm normally at 38-40 bpm. 

I admit that I read TOO much on the Interwebz and how bad running is for you, so then I almost completely stopped altogether. But something in me just didn't feel right, so I've gone with my instinct and I've continued to run. You really have to listen to your body.

Another no-no - I thought I could speed fat-loss by training fasted. Not good, especially since I'm iron deficient. My workouts suffered, as well as my overall energy. It's just not for me.

Darrin, thank you for your informative blog and this forum. 

Emy