April 2011

RUNNING FOR BODY BUILDERS

Aerobics work is important for bodybuilders, whether you are serious or simply like to pump iron in the gym because it feels good. Building muscle does no good is it's covered by fat and it often is, and aerobic work is important for burning calories, and fat. Unfortunately most bodybuilders don't really enjoy aerobics, but here are some options.

One option is simply doing aerobic work you enjoy. For example I like biking and my friend Phil loves playing pickup basketball games in the park. The problem with this approach, is not only is it seasonal in some places, but it takes time. It takes me at least an hour to get a good bike ride in, usually a couple of hours. Similarly basketball and other "unofficial" aerobic activities take time. Running on the other hand gives you a big aerobic effect in a small amount of time.

Running however is not low impact. You need to limit your running time and running days, especially if hitting it hard in the gym. I usually run two to three times a week for twenty to sixty minutes maximum, with the occasional longer run every few weeks. My average run is probably 30 minutes. I also don't run year round, taking months off at a time in favor of other aerobic activities.

You'll need to find what works best for you too in terms of your leg workouts. I don't mind running immediately after my leg workout occasionally, but never the next day. Many people however don't find that running works well for two days after a leg workout.

Running is a fast and intense way to add aerobic work. It is time efficient. It's also not low impact so don't overdue it. You might not like aerobic work, I never did, but have come to enjoy the occasional run, especially outside.


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