Weight training w/ running

I have been working towards a 5k and train 4 days a week. On two of the off-days, I've decided to go to the gym to do weights. Yesterday, I did arms. Anyway, running today my legs just felt tired. I am wondering if doing leg weights helps with running. Any advice?

weight routines that include legs are VERY helpful to running. I was not doing any weight training, and finally ended up with some tendonitis that might have been avoided if I had worked more quad/hamstring and hip flexor strength into my routine.

No, it might not make you faster, but it will help "in the long run". ;)

I think being tired after weights is normal, but your body will get used to it.

I'm looking forward to what the more experienced cross trainers will add.

Hi Carlea,

I don't think lifting weights will help your running much; as I understand it, lifting weights builds up your fast twitch muscles, running uses your slow twitch muscles. From my personal perspective; I've been lifting weights with a personal trainer three times a week for over a year now. I'm much stronger and can do a 90 minute session of intense lifting using all my muscle groups, so I'm in pretty good shape for doing that. I started running two weeks ago and felt like a complete beginner, I was winded after 90 seconds of jogging!

Lifting and running are completely different and I don't think they help the other much. It's a great idea to do both, because both have some great advantages.

Kerry

Stronger legs will help with speed and will help prevent injury. Legs are usually the fastest place to build muscle which will help you boost your metabolism as well. You can't go wrong trying to build leg strength.

Strength training will significantly improve your performance.  The more muscle, as long as you keep them flexible, the better.  If strength training doesn't work, try yoga.  The tired legs might just be a signal of a need for a rest day, or more hydration.
Rob