I read Scott Jolly's post on the question of lifting weights before or after running...

I have to agree that Regular Squats and Peak Running Performance are simply not compatible. However, I'm not pursuing competitive weight lifting nor competitive track results. So, if I can accept slower 5K times, I believe that strength training and running are in fact complimentary. I alternate days... therefore I lift weights before and after running, depending on your frame of reference :-)

But the reason for this post is that I have just discovered a new challenge that Scott didn't ponder... Weights WHILE running. I started with a pair of neoprene coated 2lb cast iron hand weights. That doesn't sound like much at all! Heck, I used to weigh 35 lbs more than I do now... But those four extra pounds really cranked up the running effort. I'm going to make that a regular component of my running from now on...

Scott... give it a try. It'll make running without the hand weights feel like you're floating across the track :-)

May 16, 2005 06:20 PM EDT Permalink