Yet Another Cycling Forum
General Category => The Knowledge => Health & Fitness => Topic started by: SteveC on 20 September, 2012, 08:56:31 pm
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As I have mentioned once or twice over the last few months, I am working away from home three days a week at the moment. I had hoped this would have come to an end now, but the away_boss has been given some more cash to keep me and home_boss has no immediate work lined up, so I don't really have much choice.
I am usually back in the hotel by 5.30. (They work silly hours!) That does provide some time for exercise. I've tried taking the bike but I've only managed two rides out of about four weeks worth of attempts--various reasons some better than others :face palm:
And, with the evenings drawing in, riding will become less inviting (I've been doing an off road ride and that will be silly with the lighting i have available).
So, I thought about running. I used to jog 'a bit' about 20 years ago. The last time I tried I had problems with my thighs (fine when I was on the flat, but getting down stairs was comical and painful).
Does the panel have any advice on: whether to give it another go, and if so, how long/far to start with &c &c?
Thanks
Steve
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Run gently, concentrating on absorbing the shock, and you may be able to avoid the initial shin splints. I did a bit of running in the summer and it was fine.
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Working out of hotels is soul destroying I have done it over a large chunk of the planet as have lots of YACFers. Running is hard on the bones and subject to local conditions get advice. If you can get hold of a bike much less hard on the bones also get local advice.
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You could start with a Couch to 5K plan. They usually start with a few minutes minutes walking, then a few minutes running, for a total of 30 minutes. Steadily increasing the amount of running.
There's a few available with podcasts etc. eg from the NHS: http://www.nhs.uk/LiveWell/c25k/Pages/couch-to-5k.aspx
or from Podrunner: http://www.djsteveboy.com/intervals.html
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Run gently, concentrating on absorbing the shock, and you may be able to avoid the initial shin splints. I did a bit of running in the summer and it was fine.
Further to that - get a decent pair of running shoes. They're are so much better than they used to be and a good pair will really help keep injuries at bay.
I did a winter of running a few years back and with new shoes, my knees gave me no hassle at all when in the past they always would...
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As has been suggested, definitely start gently. It's a common mistake to assume that fitness in one field will easily transfer to another. It only works in cardio-vascular terms (grammar that makes even me cringe and I wrote it!). Stretching before and after will probably help but that should be gentle, too. Probably the most certain way to solve the painful thighs v stairs scenario is to get your hotel to give you a room on the ground floor!
Bobb's advice is very sound, whether you read it aloud or not.
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I started running when I was on assignment in the US.
I thought I hated it but, once my Canadian friend told me I was running too fast and I should be able to chat whilst jogging, I slowed down and got the hang of it.
My knees don't particularly get on with running so I stopped but I think the key (I'm really no expert here) is a proper pair of running shoes (very light and very spongy to save your joints) and a nice slow pace for an hour.
Don't put on a pair of Green-Flash and go hell for leather for 2 minutes until you keel over.
Obviously, if you spot any attractive girls walking the other way you should speed up to a near Olympic pace until you pass them and are out of sight.
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Obviously, if you spot any attractive girls walking the other way you should speed up to a near Olympic pace until you pass them and are out of sight.
I am far too old and grey for that to be a consideration!
S
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Stretching before......
Warm up first.
Never, ever start with stretching. DAMHIKT.
Jog slowly for about 5 minutes (maybe more) and then stretch.
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Just a warning about treadmills. If you do get into regular running, and then it's raining and you find that the hotel has a treadmill, go easy.
When I was a regular runner I found that fitness to run on the road doesn't necessarily transfer to the treadmill. I remember I ran an easy 8 miler on a hotel treadmill, (or some such distance - long, but no big deal distance wise to me in those days), and knackererd my soleus muscles for some reason. (Maybe I had it set too fast, maybe the action is not quite "real" I dunno). Took a couple of weeks to be able to run again after that. I should have taken it easy as a new exercise type to start off.
Apart from that - agree all the above: jog/walk to begin, good shoes, warm up, stretch, don't overdo it, allow time to recover.
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My advice:
I've never seen a runner smiling, as distinct from cyclists. There will be a reason for this.
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Ham, the reason could be you need new glasses! I loved to run and smiled inanely. I even smiled all the way to the MRI scanner which put an end to my running. Didn't smile much on the way home, though!
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My advice:
I've never seen a runner smiling, as distinct from cyclists. There will be a reason for this.
As I sat on my sofa, watching the Great North Run on TV, I noticed the same thing.
Apart from thousands of grimacing faces I also noticed many hundreds of people I would consider way too overweight to be pounding their knees into tarmac. Quite amazing how many were wearing knee supports and how many were limping or struggling to run after just a few km. (some looked in bad shape as they crossed the start line).
Again, I'm no expert (but that doesn't keep a good YACF'er down), but I'd have thought running/jogging was perfectly healthy IF:
- You weren't carrying way too much weight
- You were in control of your running style (ie. Not limping or forced into poor posture)
- You weren't in need of some form of structural support before you set off.
Apart from the first half of the field it looked like it was sponsored by ACME Knee Supports Inc.
Edit. Of course the winner was a 7stone Kenyan who was pounding the tarmac for about an hour. That's great, I can see that would be fun. The tail-enders were 20stone and pounding tarmac for over 3 hours. Not fun, or healthy I would have thought.
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;D
but see above. There are exceptions! (Africans do a lot of smiling; some are positively laughing, it's so easy!)
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;D
but see above. There are exceptions! (Africans do a lot of smiling; some are positively laughing, it's so easy!)
Cross-post with my edit.
Yes, Kenyans smile because moving 7 stone along for an hour is a breeze.
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I agree there may be exceptions that prove the rule and you may be one such, but the rule passes. Those that smile are in the smallest minority, so small that I don't see them in distinct contrast to cycling, especially on a sunny day (or oddly enough a really wet day). If you don't believe me stand for a while on the Southbank or any other street.
It is a subject I've been thinking about the whole summer, I have been looking and failing to see a single smiling runner and I see a very lot. The best I see are comfortable runners, not grimacing.
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Ham, Your rule seems sound, but I fear it's comparing apples and er... cooking apples!
I think it's about effort level. Go to a photo gallery from a 10-mile TT - hardly any smiles. Cyclists can cover vast distances at low effort levels. SOME runners do the same, but the majority are running shorter and harder.
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My thoughts also
Running to keep fit or running to get a better time over a race are different things.
A lot of people doing a half marathon (Great North Run) or other races are trying to get round the distance or better their time from last time.
The same as cycling, if I'm trying to beat a time I've rarely smiling. Riding or running with friends is often fun and smiling/laughing happens.
Rich
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I hate running, but do it (badly) as a way to get my exercise fix quickly.
If you're back at the hotel by 5.30, you've time plenty of time to spend exercising, so why not avoid injury and go for a brisk walk? You can do the same distances but it'll take a bit longer. Much less risk to knees / shins / hips / feet, and you can still work up a bit of a sweat.
and get hold of a copy of 'convict conditioning' by Paul Wade, loads of exercises that can be done in a hotel room (or prison cell...)
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What about walking? Or is that not intensive enough for you?
I don't/can't run. Apart from occasionally having to nip across a road quickly I haven't run anywhere since I was at school, about 43 years ago - and I hated it then. To try and stave off diabetes, heart disease and overweight (that my dad succumbed to at 63) I've been walking for at least 2 hours every week day. Doc says it's a good idea so I'm keeping my fingers crossed. It doesn't hurt too (unlike running).
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I've been toying with the 'walk-run' strategy. It's how I started off building up when first recovering from injury problems [double tib-fib fracture, not nasty gravel rash]. I then read that a lot of ultra runners - and those doing iron-man - actually plan to cover the "run" that way.
It would be nice to try stuff like the LWDA 30milers in this fashion (return to the Dorset Doddle? <shivers> )
It's got a lot of advantages - less damaging than full run, but more 'exertion' than a walk - but it is enormously frustrating! As soon as my legs find a rhythmn, the clock ticks round to the next walk phase. I can't see a good way of making it more interesting (apart from employing a running buddy/coach to shout orders - any volunteers?!? )
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I used to hate running but since I took up Parkrun about three months ago, I've grown to love it. I don't see smiling as a necessary indicator of enjoyment. You won't often see me smiling at the end of a Parkrun, but I always enjoy it.
Thing is, I've only started enjoying running since I lost weight and got fit. I think being overweight and unfit was one of the things that previously prevented me from enjoying running. YMMV.
I've always enjoyed a good long walk. Especially if there's a pub involved at some point on the route.
d.
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I Loved running. I'm not allowed to run distances any more since a (non running related) knee mash up. I love cycling, and long walks. It's all good. :) Edit ... I really dislike swimming though, so I'm not entirely uncritical. And I rarely smile.
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I used to hate running but since I took up Parkrun about three months ago, I've grown to love it. I don't see smiling as a necessary indicator of enjoyment. You won't often see me smiling at the end of a Parkrun, but I always enjoy it.
Thing is, I've only started enjoying running since I lost weight and got fit. I think being overweight and unfit was one of the things that previously prevented me from enjoying running. YMMV.
I've always enjoyed a good long walk. Especially if there's a pub involved at some point on the route.
d.
Due to living life in hotels I also started Parkrun a fortnight ago posting 31:49 at my first attempt. I was just happy I didn't walk. I've never been a runner, always hated it, but needs must as I'm overweight and underfit. And hey, I enjoyed it! My second attempt was slower as I was with my daughter (Good sprinter ... no endurance), but we manage to smile ....
http://www.flickr.com/photos/tomhsl/7992040883/sizes/o/in/photostream/
One thing I have tried this time around (I've tried jogging before) is to run on my toes not my heels and it's much more comfortable, no jarring. Try it.
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Fair enough, 10/10 for the smiles!
I see that great minds think alike: wear a bike-related top. It's like a sign-saying:" I'm actually quite good at my main sport ... "
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Fab Foodie, that's a good first effort :) Won't be long before you get under the 30 minute barrier.
The guys taking 3 hours over the GNR that often get slagged off deserve huge amounts of respect in my opinion. I maintain its harder for those running a half at that pace than for those of us done in less than 80 minutes. I was once one of those overweight runners trying to haul myself round a Race for Life, and I went on to lose loads of weight from running and actually get to a pretty good standard at it. It takes all sorts, and I've always found runners a happy bunch- certainly a very sociable lot.
Walk-running is totally fine as a starting point, don't be afraid of walking, or running slower.
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I've used a few strategies back in the days when I was still racing (and therefore wanted to have some fitness) but also in hotels for, often, 5 nights a week. It's much easier if you're in the same hotel for some weeks.
I've taken a turbo trainer and a bike - hotels often have a conference room or, if all else fails, a car park where you can set up. Just develop a thick skin about passers-by. Usually though I found that they are interested really, and a chat whilst on the turbo can relieve some of the boredom.
Local gyms are often interested to negociate a temporary membership for spin etc. I've found that the 1st line dask staff may not see the possibilities, but if you ask to chat to the manager they can usually come up with something. A good spin (sorry!) - off is that you may meet a few people and make some (albeit temporary) friends.
My advice to anyone working out of hotels for any length of time is to "live where you are staying", in other words find places to go, theatres, gigs, bars, cycling clubs or whatever you might do at home, and develop a life there rather than work/hotel restaurant/bar/bed.
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Good effort, Fab Foodie!
10/10 for the smiles!
I made a point of smiling for the cameras yesterday, specially for Ham. ;)
I'll post a link when the pics are up.
I see that great minds think alike: wear a bike-related top. It's like a sign-saying:" I'm actually quite good at my main sport ... "
I wear cycling shorts to run in, mainly because I don't own any running-specific gear (apart from my running shoes) and partly because I cycle to the start. I sometimes wear a cycling top half too, mainly because it has pockets to keep my phone etc in. Otherwise, I have to carry stuff in my hands while running or leave it unsecured at the start. Maybe I should get one of those belt-bags I see some people using.
Talking of running-specific gear, I strongly recommend buying a decent pair of running shoes, properly fitted in a decent specialist running shoe shop. It makes a world of difference to both comfort and performance.
d.
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Fair enough, 10/10 for the smiles!
I see that great minds think alike: wear a bike-related top. It's like a sign-saying:" I'm actually quite good at my main sport ... "
I see you've seen through my strategy! Apart from the fact that I can't find ant T-shirts that aren't cycleing related ... dullard that I am.
Regarding Smiling, because of my cardiac stent I can't push myself too hard anyway, so I might as well plod along and enjoy the scenery as I can no longer than force myself into the pain barrier. Accepting limitations is the way to inner peace!
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I hate running, but do it (badly) as a way to get my exercise fix quickly.
If you're back at the hotel by 5.30, you've time plenty of time to spend exercising, so why not avoid injury and go for a brisk walk? You can do the same distances but it'll take a bit longer. Much less risk to knees / shins / hips / feet, and you can still work up a bit of a sweat.
and get hold of a copy of 'convict conditioning' by Paul Wade, loads of exercises that can be done in a hotel room (or prison cell...)
Thanks for the recommendation.
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Well, I did a brisk 5k walk tonight. Data according to Endomondo is: 5.45 km in 53' 55"
That will do as a start. Meant didn't have to bring special clothes and could go straight to the pub instead of having to go back to the hotel to change. Making it a 5k also gives me an idea of what running a 5k would be like. Tonight is the only night away this week.
S
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And tonight I finally got round to actually doing some running.
I'm giving the NHS couch potato to 5k podcasts, but I'm going to be doing two days a week instead of three and they'll have to be consecutive (Mon & Tue). I'll still be cycling on Thursday (and Friday when possible).
And the best bit was that I actually enjoyed it!
S
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Did the parkrun last saturday ... terrible!
I met my mate Dez at the start (he's 80) and set off with him, I was feeling good, the pace was a tad faster than previously, but I felt OK. I needed a wee though and had to stop :-[ About half way round my legs started to sieze-up, really solid, not like cramp but just siezed rigid. I walked a bit ad then ran a bit and completed the second lap in this fashion. Since I've been really stiff. Even an average paced (14mph/40 miler) ... on the bike ... didn't help.
Just wondering if I overdid it at the start, or whether it was just a bit colder or what but I've suffered a while since.
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Even an average paced (14mph/40 miler) didn't help.
Average paced ? I think 15mph is 4 minute mile speed.
When I was young and fit and running was my main sport I set a hotel treadmill at 15mph.
I hit the "Stop" button after ~3 min 20 sec.
After staggering back to to my room, I had to lay on the bed for 2 hours before I could consider standing up long enough to have a shower.
The next day was very difficult.
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Even an average paced (14mph/40 miler) didn't help.
Average paced ? I think 15mph is 4 minute mile speed.
When I was young and fit and running was my main sport I set a hotel treadmill at 15mph.
I hit the "Stop" button after ~3 min 20 sec.
After staggering back to to my room, I had to lay on the bed for 2 hours before I could consider standing up long enough to have a shower.
The next day was very difficult.
;D Edited for clarity!
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Clearer now :thumbsup:
Still, at least as far as I'm concerned, 14mph for 40 miles on a bike is a good effort :)
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A number of people mentioned knee injuries and injuries in general. I'm convinced that running off pavement whenever possible, keeping the knees warm (tights/long pants in cold weather) and a decent set of footbeds in one's shoes will go a long way toward reducing the likelihood of knee damage.
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Well, I didn't get out last Tuesday, mostly due to the weather, so today was supposed to be the second of my 'week 1' runs. So I'm all ready to set off and go to the podcast app. Where is 'week 1'? As I'd already listened to it, iTunes had removed it from the phone! So I did a week 2 run instead. Definitely harder work, but I managed. We'll have to see how I feel in the morning and I really must try to get out tomorrow and preferably Thursday or Friday as well.
S
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Did the same circuit as last week, but this time I lengthened my stride and increased my speed for the final 50 metres or so. The start of the jog was a bit dodgy, I suddenly remembered how bored I used to get when I was running regularly, but the sun was out and as my body warmed up and I got into a rhythm I started to enjoy it. I might take it through the woods next time, just to vary the terrain and the 'scenery' a bit. That'll involve a bit of walking and mud though and I don't want my trainers getting too stinky.
We'll see. A result, I think.
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tres or so. The start of the jog was a bit dodgy, I suddenly remembered how bored I used to get when I was running regularly, but the sun was out and as my body warmed up and I got into a rhythm I started to enjoy it. I might take it through the woods next time, just to vary the terrain and the 'scenery' a bit.
Taking it through the woods has made running far more pleasant for me, although you do have to watch where you put your feet.
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There are fewer people in the woods too. I saw three people I know when I was out. There are advantages to running at night!
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Did Parkrun #4 last week with my daughter (who now zooms off into the distance) and I'm still slower than my first ever run .... how can that be?
This Saturday, I must get a new PB!
Still chuffin hurts though ....
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Did Parkrun #4 last week with my daughter (who now zooms off into the distance) and I'm still slower than my first ever run .... how can that be?
You sound like me. Three years of attempting this running lark and I still can't go for more than half an hour without something starting to hurt (hips, calves, feet - everything except my knees, funnily enough). And then I have to wait a week before everything settles down and I can have another go. I think it's age.
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Did Parkrun #4 last week with my daughter (who now zooms off into the distance) and I'm still slower than my first ever run .... how can that be?
You sound like me. Three years of attempting this running lark and I still can't go for more than half an hour without something starting to hurt (hips, calves, feet - everything except my knees, funnily enough). And then I have to wait a week before everything settles down and I can have another go. I think it's age.
This, the age thing ... that must be it :-\
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This, the age thing ... that must be it :-\
How long ago was this PB? Your local ParkRun is less than 2 years old!!!
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Well, tonight's run was the first one where I did a real 'run', as opposed to a jog, and it was great. My body likes running. I feel really free when I'm running.
Except my gut. My gut does not like running. That was the final straw when I used to run before - the need to do a Paula Radcliffe after about three miles. My mate Alex the serial marathon runner recommended a dose of immodium prior to setting off. Seems pretty drastic though. Things were starting to 'happen' as soon as I upped my pace tonight. Hope it doesn't kick off again, I'd really like to run a fair bit over the winter.
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I may have to change the title of this thread!
I am now just over half way though the NHS couch potato to 5k scheme.
And I am actually enjoying the experience. :)
I'm still not very fast but that will probably come in time.
Thanks to everyone who has posted suggestions and encouragement.
Particularly BrianI--we're both doing the scheme and have been sending supportive PMs back and forth.
Steve
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I am now just over half way though the NHS couch potato to 5k scheme.
And I am actually enjoying the experience. :)
:thumbsup:
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Running is my favorite exercise. I love to do it because it is good for legs,bones and muscles strong. Running is best cardio exercise so if someone have legs issue then he should do regular workout.
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Interesting thread. I've been keeping an eye on this as I have just about never run and its something I always hated at school. However I now find myself doing around 2 hours of dog walking a day which is cutting into my cycling and I don't see why I shouldn't run some of that instead of walking it.
Must buy myself some proper shoes - don't think I could really run in walking boots. Which is what I wear right now.
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urban_biker: I used to hate running at school. My first wife was a keen runner when we were first going out (couple of 1/2 marathons and got entry to the London Marathon but never actually ran it) so we tried running together occasionally and I did a bit on my own. But we split up in '92 and I've not really tried since early '93 when I kept getting niggly injuries whenever I started. The slow pace of the introduction on the NHS couch to 5k seems to have prevented that (touch wood). I would recommend it to anyone thinking of running from a 'zero' start. The only caveat, of course, is that I have been cycling so my base fitness is probably a bit better than the average 53 year old, but that should apply to most people reading this here.
And I hit a target this morning! Including the 5 minute warm up and warm down, I covered over 5km for the first time! :smug: Rather slowly compared to many (35'27") but a full 5k! And that's at the end of week 6 of 9.
S
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:thumbsup:
Result, then? Newtoncap and I had a discussion at the weekend, about whether running really was good cross-training for cycling. We figured that at least you were using muscles in extension, that you wouldn't on the bike, so it meant your fitness was likely to be more well-rounded. IYSWIM
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urban_biker: I used to hate running at school. My first wife was a keen runner when we were first going out (couple of 1/2 marathons and got entry to the London Marathon but never actually ran it) so we tried running together occasionally and I did a bit on my own. But we split up in '92 and I've not really tried since early '93 when I kept getting niggly injuries whenever I started. The slow pace of the introduction on the NHS couch to 5k seems to have prevented that (touch wood). I would recommend it to anyone thinking of running from a 'zero' start. The only caveat, of course, is that I have been cycling so my base fitness is probably a bit better than the average 53 year old, but that should apply to most people reading this here.
And I hit a target this morning! Including the 5 minute warm up and warm down, I covered over 5km for the first time! :smug: Rather slowly compared to many (35'27") but a full 5k! And that's at the end of week 6 of 9.
S
Excellent - I'll have to take a look at this NHS program.
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I'm afraid my NHS COuch to 5K program is temporarily stalled at mid way through week 4. Dreaded lurgy & college deadlines isn't helping my motivation!
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I've managed to complete the programme of podcasts.
Well, nearly...
Two runs this week of 30 minutes so only one to go. However, I don't think should run today. My left knee is hurting this morning (and it is the knee joint, not the muscles). Guess I need to be sensible and 'rest' over the weekend.
I may also get some better shoes.
Any suggestions for a supplier in Bath? (Seeing MrsC has 'asked' that we go there tomorrow)
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I've managed to complete the programme of podcasts.
Well, nearly...
Well done that man! :thumbsup:
Still stalled halfway through week 4....
Nice afternoon now, so I may get running kit on again and head out! :D
Hopefully your knee will get better soon!
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Just in from NHS week 5 run 2! :thumbsup:
5 min warm up. 8 min run. 5 min walk, 8 min run! :D
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:thumbsup: :thumbsup:
I'm contemplating my first 'post-course' run! Despite having a week off when my knee complained bitterly, I managed a half hour yesterday and will attempt the same tonight. I think I'll re-use the last of the podcasts and maybe look to putting some of my own running music together over the Christmas break.
However, as my secondment finishes tomorrow I should be able to use the bike from the new year (might even squeeze a ride or two in over the holidays) so the need for running will diminish.
How frequently would I have to run to keep some level of competence up?
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How frequently would I have to run to keep some level of competence up?
<as no forum experts have responded ... >
impossible to say. To 'tread water', probably twice a week.
For me, more important is how to avoid injury. If you run at your 'accustomed' pace/distance just once a month you're asking for trouble. I'd hazard a guess that WEEKLY is probably the minimum to stop your joints losing their running resilience. But you'll probably get steadily slower (do you care?).
YMMV by very large amounts!
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I read a Bio of Bob Hope. On tour he was always staying in Hotels. Every night he used to walk for a few miles around the town/city he was staying in. Lived to be a 100, so sounds like a good exercise regime. Walking is really good as it can exercise the whole body. Evidently, walking is just about the only thing we are good at in comparison to ther mammals.
I walk and run if I can't get out on the bike. I'll always try to walk everywhere for shopping etc. The good thing about running is, it's just outside the door and you can get a huge exercise fix in a short period of time. It's great to get a quick run in, even when its raining, which is all the time just now. 30/40 mins and your back for a hot shower and chuck minimal running kit in wash.
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On the topic of running helping cycling. IME it can, but not really in areas you'd expect it. Because most of the time you'll be running at a much higher heart rate than cycling I find your cardiovascular system gets a real boost, which is most noticeable when climbing hills where you can go further and quicker.
However the caveat at least for me is that cycling a day after a run is really difficult. I feel personally that physiologically cycling benefits running more than the other way round.
For the record I ran my first 10k race for a couple of years today and did it in 48 minutes, but my god it was hard!!!
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I would mostly disagree with that.
On the topic of running helping cycling. IME it can, but not really in areas you'd expect it. Because most of the time you'll be running at a much higher heart rate than cycling I find your cardiovascular system gets a real boost, which is most noticeable when climbing hills where you can go further and quicker.
You'd get the same benefit (and more) by cycling at those heart rates!
If you're more 'bike fit' than 'run fit', you will be able to sustain 'heart rate =X' for longer than when running. Few people can do long runs more than 4hours, but that's just the start of endurance cycling - so you can do more training on the bike, and STILL fit in a hard interval at raised heart-rate. [if you're a runner just doing a bit of cycling, you're on the wrong thread/website :) ]
(I know HR-max is usually a smidge higher running than cycling for most people, but you don't/shouldn't train at HR-max, so it's irrelevant.)
Where we might agree is that most cycling IS done at lower HR than most people run. But you CAN ride harder if you want to!
p.s. my first 10 is 12 days away - 48mins will be a miracle ...
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Ref: Mattc's post, I certainly notice that when I'm bike fit(!) I can cruise along on my not running fit legs quite happily for as long as I want, easily 10km+, my CV system just ticking over.
I ache like mad the next day though, especially through the hip joints from all that pounding of pavements/trails.
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mattc, I'm typing on my phone so I am not being entirely clear, I wholeheartedly agree regarding the cardiovascular statement, but in my opinion that's where the benefit ends. Physiologically wise I don't find the muscle groups exercised benefit cycling that much as much as cycling assists running.
At the end of the 10k my heart and lungs felt fantastic which is a definate result of cycling long distance, but my legs were ripped to shreds. I can barely stand right now!!! ;D
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Yeah, I think we're in agreement on that! As I posted on t'other thread, my HR on a flatout 5km is waaaay below what I can do on the bike for a longer TT, yet my legs are fecked afterwards. (Hopefully the gap will narrow as I get more 'run fit' - but it won't close until I do as many foot hours as bike hours.)
It's even worse for us forefoot strikers, I suspect, what with the calves doing even more work.
(I can ride pretty well after a hard run, but I probably lose a little top-end. Compare with when I ran the day after a steady 200k recently; my calves were complaining throughout, even plodding.)
I really don't think running is 'good' for your cycling - or Sir Brad would be doing it! It's really a mental thing - you might run when you can't be arsed* to ride, it will help keep weight off and give some CV benefit (compare to sitting on the couch).
*or conditions are just too dangerous
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Hmm. This evening Miss Ham - who is currently on a bit of a gym/fitness kick - was feeling exceptional sorry for herself because none of her friends would join her for a run/gym whatever.
So I volunteered myself to jog with her. Not far, but I surprised myself in that I completed the 3 miles in substantially better shape than herself, in terms of general fitness. But I do not wish to comment about my back or knees.
I do hate running, it is true. I suspect I may have let myself in for more that I really wanted, though.