Content provided in partnership with

Marathon strength tapering - The Clinic - Brief Article - Letter to the Editor

Running & FitNews, Sept-Oct, 2003

? I have seven weeks to go in my 18-week training program for my sixth marathon. I am 32 years old, and do strength training three times a week, with a lower body session the day after my long run. Since the long runs are up to 18 miles now, should I cease doing my lower body workout? What about strength training in general as the marathon draws closer?

Michael Martin, Odenton, MD

The day after a long run should be an easy day--you certainly shouldn't be doing strength training. You goal at this point should be to maintain strength and maximize explosiveness. You can accomplish that with just two workouts a week, focusing on heavier weights. It's a little late for this race, but you should move away from body-part training many weeks prior to any major event. Your strength training should reflect that the body works as an integrated whole, not in parts, particularly with running.

Most Popular Articles in Health: Fuel your workout: exercisers who eat before they work out have more energy ...; Soothe a dry, itchy scalp: 5 easy expert solutions; Cocktails and calories: Beer, wine and liquor calories can really add up. ...; The sour truth about apple cider vinegar - evaluation of therapeutic use; The, six best supplements you've never heard of: these secret weapons can ...; More »

Stephen Holt, CSCS, PES, Lutherville, MD

Marathon strength tapering - The Clinic - Brief Article - Letter to the Editor

Running & FitNews, Sept-Oct, 2003

Find Research Guides for:

Find Featured Titles for: Business

Most Popular Articles in Health

Most Popular Publications in Health