Cardio while bulking?

[ndnfan]

I'm a runner who is relatively new to resistance training. I'm 38 years old, looking to get a build less like an Ethiopian marathoner and more like an American sprinter. I'm wondering if I need to eliminate, or cut down my cardio? I usually lift for 30 minutes 4 times per week, and run about 15 miles per week.

Since I want to add muscle, not fat, I think the running is good. But, does the running consume too many calories and prevent muscle gain?

 

[ceo]

I'm a runner who is relatively new to resistance training. I'm 38 years old, looking to get a build less like an Ethiopian marathoner and more like an American sprinter. I'm wondering if I need to eliminate, or cut down my cardio? I usually lift for 30 minutes 4 times per week, and run about 15 miles per week.

Since I want to add muscle, not fat, I think the running is good. But, does the running consume too many calories and prevent muscle gain?

do low impact cardio in the AM and make sure you're taking in a calorie surplus. Shoot for high protein (2 grams/lb. bodyweight), moderate (good) fats and moderate carbs.

Keep a logbook and make sure your weights are progressing each week.

Most important thing in gaining weight is to EAT, EAT, EAT!!!!!!!!

(still working out though)...

 

[NJL52]

Not sure what the results will be, but running endurance/distance running does the same thing for "Ethiopian marathoner" muscle as weight lifting does for "American sprinter" muscle.

In other words, endurance running trains your body telling it that you need more slow twitch(ethiopian) and less fast twitch(sprinter).

 

[DanBoyle]

Yeah if you run that much and want to build more muscle, you are going to have to eat like crazy just like ceo said.

One thing that you want to keep in mind are your genetics... you may be built like an etheopian... not necessarily the case but just to make sure you keep that in mind.

If I were you I would cut the cardio down and really concentrate on hardcore lifting and create a new diet too. I hope that general opinion helps a little.

 

[smtimelevi]

You say you want a build like a sprinter, do you want to be a sprinter or just put on a little muscle?

If running is your sport then you kinda need to stick with that. Due to the fact that habits conducive to gaining muscle don't involve starvation diets and running hours a day. Not to say you couldn't hit the weights a little more and add some protien into your diet. Since you do so much cardio you probably wouldnt put on any fat. But if you are going to make the switch, prioritize.

If muscle mass is your primary goal then that comes first, Cardio is going to have to be post workout and you might want to lay off before leg day. Then start adding extra calories.
If you are going to become a sprinter then football style workouts will be great for you. Power Cleans, Squat, Deadlifts, etc.
Remember you can only grow so much muscle w/o a calorie surplus!