Couch to 5K question

[Anonymous]

Hello! I have decided I would like to run a 5K. I am not in horrible shape - I go to the gym 3-4 times per week doing elliptical or stationary bike for 45 min to an hour then lifting weights 2x per week, and I do a Zumba class 1x per week. However, I have very, very limited actual running experience and struggle to run for more than five minutes at a time - thus, I've consulted the couch to 5K plan. However, my question is this - I really, really need that time at the gym to keep my sanity and not feel 'bloated.' And since most of the Cto5K workouts are less than a half hour in the beginning, I know that probably won't cut it. Can I keep my regular regimen on top of the 5K training, or will that mess things up?

[Anonymous]

I think you'll be fine, if:

- You have at least one non-exercise day off a week (no gym, no elliptical, no zumba, no running)
- You do not run on consecutive days (ie, crosstrain on days between runs - don't run two days in a row)
- If you're doubling up on workouts, I highly recommend doing your running first. You'll stay on better track with the program.

Once you progress through the program and add up more running time, I'd not do other things on your run days, except maybe weight training.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I think you'll be fine, if:

- You have at least one non-exercise day off a week (no gym, no elliptical, no zumba, no running)
- You do not run on consecutive days (ie, crosstrain on days between runs - don't run two days in a row)
- If you're doubling up on workouts, I highly recommend doing your running first. You'll stay on better track with the program.

Once you progress through the program and add up more running time, I'd not do other things on your run days, except maybe weight training.

Good advice. You can do it, maybe even faster than the program.

[Anonymous]

I'll just chime in as well. Agree with the PPs. I think you will have no problem with the program, but definitely don't overdo the running. I did and have been saddled with lots of injuries over it.

I think cross-training is great to keep up fitness. If I were you, I'd work on running maybe 2-3 times/week (tops) and nothing too long.