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Powerlifting and Running

Powerlifting and running are the two types of training that are on the opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to muscle fiber recruitment as they activate totally different types of muscles. Any cardio or aerobic activity like running, whether it be fast or slow running will be using primarily Type I, slow twitch white muscle fibers.

Powerlifting or any fast movement done for less than 10 seconds uses the energy you have in your muscles called muscle glycogen, which is depleted very quickly when training with heavy weights. These muscle fibers are called Type II, fast twitch red muscle fibers. The reason why running and powerlifting are not commonly trained together is simply because of body-types.

Someone who gets attracted to powerlifting is usually not a runner and this can be attributed to their genotype, as an ectomorph will be a good runner naturally because of their predominantly slow twitch or white muscle fibers that they have in their body.

Powerlifters and bodybuilders are usually mesomorphs or endomorphs that have fast twitch muscle fibers which hypertrophy quickly. Very seldom will a short mesomorphic man or woman get into running but there are exceptions, the same as there are some very successful ectomorph bodybuilders but they are the exception and not the rule.

If you are someone who is a powerlifter that wants to start running then you need to plan your workouts correctly and only do long distance running once a week while doing short runs and interval training on other running days. The reason why this type of training is recommended is because too much running will slow your recuperation from powerlifting.

By cycling your workouts correctly as a powerlifter and runner it is possible to get the best of both worlds and develop endurance and strength at the same time. The most important aspect of this type of training is to make sure that you are able to recover fully so that you monitor your ability to recuperate from your runs as well as your intense and heavy powerlifting workouts.

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DISCLAIMER: This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read.