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Post by scrappy123 on Dec 13, 2011 19:52:58 GMT
Spent last two weeks doing something that normally to me is the unthinkable. Ive been running 4-5 miles 5 evenings after a 30 min weights session.  I'd been told that it increases bone density giving me better power to the legs. Been doing different weights to increase muscle and also to improve strength to my dodgy knees. So Far so good (also with the help of some decent running trainers) The difference is massive, Ive lost over half a stone and everything is rock solid. Thing is i cant figure out why when i was burning just as much calories on the bike, and my shape and weight stayed the same through all the biking  yet two solid weeks of running, i look totally different. Have had two weeks off the bike completely and i read somewhere that i will be back to square one because running increases muscle length, where as biking the muscle is shorter, so runners find it harder ? is this true or is it complete rubbish ?   |
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Post by Trailrash on Dec 13, 2011 20:55:27 GMT
Not really in the know but I have been told the reverse is possible i.e. cycling shortens the muscles especially the hamstrings and therefore affects running stamina and or efficiency??  |
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Post by flexcycles on Dec 13, 2011 21:01:25 GMT
quote: Have had two weeks off the bike completely and i read somewhere that i will be back to square one because running increases muscle length, where as biking the muscle is shorter, so runners find it harder ? is this true or is it complete rubbish ?
None of the muscles used for running are used for mountain biking. That is why cross training is recommended.
So runners find it harder, no.
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Post by oldgit on Dec 13, 2011 21:04:12 GMT
As a retired runner of some 30 years duration my advice is; take care what you run on. Pavements can hazerdous for tripping; roads have a camber which can cause injuries; downhills can shatter the thighs. the best is grassy parkland or playing fieldsor even a friendly golf course.Most important get a good pair of trainers  Good luck I loved it for the competition. What does Ken think he use to be a runner (on the fells like me I believe) ;D I mixed running and biking when I was doing tri's. You mention dodgy knees ooh take care and follow my advice on surfaces. Don't forget to stretch AFTER the run not before |
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Post by thistle on Dec 13, 2011 21:51:13 GMT
I've got problems with shortened calfs/hamstrings and I've always done a lot of cycling. Never caused a problem riding a bike but has when walking. Might be connected.
On the other hand I can't run even short distances without hurting myself. I can run 7 miles (slowly towards the end!) but can barely walk for a week or so afterwards as my thighs hurt.
When the weather's bad I can't find the motivation to go for a long ride, and it takes so long to get ready it's not worth going for a short ride. With running you just put your trainers on and go.
If you can manage the running without it hurting you, I'd keep it at it.
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Post by oldgit on Dec 14, 2011 9:25:07 GMT
Try running uphill BACKWARDS and find out what it does to the quads (make sure no body is watching or they'll think you're mad)
Don't forget to stretch afterwards not before
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Post by Dan Evans on Dec 14, 2011 19:09:44 GMT
Running is great unless you want to compete at a high level in cycling. For a recreational mtb'er it'll probably do you the world of good, increasing your aerobic fitness and reducing your weight at the same time.
On the flip side (especially if you're planning on some competitive cycling) it can also completely ruin a lovely smooth pedal stroke and has been documented to reduce power output. Suppose it rings true as well because Triathletes generally don't make good timetrialists even though they put plenty of training in.
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Post by woody on Dec 14, 2011 19:48:26 GMT
Don't think running will do any harm at all as long as you continue to ride your bike. If it helps you to lose weight then all the better as cycling is all about the ratio between power and weight.
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Post by Dan Evans on Dec 14, 2011 20:36:05 GMT
cycling is all about the ratio between power and weight. Only if your going uphill. On the flat weight doesn't matter and it's a case of power vs frontal area (drag) that determines speed. If you're going downhill then being light is actually a hinderance! So there you go, if you want to be fast downhill then the best thing to do is pile on some pounds. |
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Post by Ken on Dec 14, 2011 21:57:20 GMT
In my opinion nothing wrong with a bit of cross training , variety is the spice of life , running takes far more effort than cycling for the same time spent exercising . So perhaps this is why you're noticing a difference . The only advice I'd give is don't run / bike / exercise everyday as rest and recovery is just as important . As far as running is concerned as said by others try to run on soft surfaces as much as possible , not easy this time of year I know . Also maybe get out of the gym way to many people posing in front of mirrors ( sorry Rallybiker) ;D and perhaps a bit of indoor bouldering at your local wall , great for torso strength and takes way more effort than most people imagine .
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Post by scrappy123 on Dec 15, 2011 17:05:16 GMT
great advice, thanks guys Will keep the runs up and let you know how it goes. Hopefully I will get to dust bike down over half term 
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Post by rallybiker on Dec 15, 2011 19:02:00 GMT
In my opinion nothing wrong with a bit of cross training , variety is the spice of life , running takes far more effort than cycling for the same time spent exercising . So perhaps this is why you're noticing a difference . The only advice I'd give is don't run / bike / exercise everyday as rest and recovery is just as important . As far as running is concerned as said by others try to run on soft surfaces as much as possible , not easy this time of year I know . Also maybe get out of the gym way to many people posing in front of mirrors ( sorry Rallybiker) ;D and perhaps a bit of indoor bouldering at your local wall , great for torso strength and takes way more effort than most people imagine . I'll just get 2 huskies for the next Forum ride then, shall I?? |
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Post by rallybiker on Dec 17, 2011 19:27:05 GMT
Spent last two weeks doing something that normally to me is the unthinkable. Ive been running 4-5 miles 5 evenings after a 30 min weights session. I'd been told that it increases bone density giving me better power to the legs. Been doing different weights to increase muscle and also to improve strength to my dodgy knees. So Far so good (also with the help of some decent running trainers) The difference is massive, Ive lost over half a stone and everything is rock solid. Thing is i cant figure out why when i was burning just as much calories on the bike, and my shape and weight stayed the same through all the biking yet two solid weeks of running, i look totally different. Have had two weeks off the bike completely and i read somewhere that i will be back to square one because running increases muscle length, where as biking the muscle is shorter, so runners find it harder ? is this true or is it complete rubbish ? Join an aerobics class like this lad. You know it makes sense! youtu.be/L_fCqg92qks |
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Post by oldgit on Dec 17, 2011 21:06:20 GMT
PHEW !!!!!!!!!!!! Gotta take my cardy off |
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Post by scrappy123 on Dec 18, 2011 16:37:51 GMT
;D ;D ;D Blinkin heck think id need to go for a decent waxing session before going there ;D ;D If the fitness instructor looked like him id have no trouble keeping fit |
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I'd been told that it increases bone density giving me better power to the legs. 
yet two solid weeks of running, i look totally different.
Good luck I loved it for the competition. What does Ken think he use to be a runner (on the fells like me I believe) ;D I mixed running and biking when I was doing tri's. You mention dodgy knees ooh take care and follow my advice on surfaces. Don't forget to stretch AFTER the run not before
