Thread: Running

If you're not nourishing yourself properly prior to the run, then yes it can. One, you are burning calories that your body could otherwise use to increase muscle mass. Two, you are throwing your body into a catabolic state, which means that your body may start eating its own muscle. I usually try to eat 30 minutes before I go jogging, and then again immediately afterwards. However, if I were you, I wouldn't jog for more than about 30 minutes if you are trying to gain muscle mass.

You should do a search for HIIT cardio. This form of cardio will speed up your metabolism quite a lot and is less likely to induce catabolism because of the shorter duration of the session.

Originally Posted by NNN

Does the running ie. for 5 kms after workout,let's say 1 hr, have any affect muscle development.

you bet, it will hinder it greatly.

Thanks. I will find more for HIIT cardio.

you bet your ass it will, your cortisol levels will be way up. Its almost impossible, and at the least very unlikely that while running distances frequently you could proporly nourish yourself. This is comin from an ex XC runner, I know all about it and I got one word for ya, catabolism!

I used to run quite a bit too. I can honestly say, I have never been able to put on any appreciable muscle mass while doing even moderate 2-3 mile runs. I would either switch to HIIT or try long walks instead.