Did you gain weight while marathon training?

Don’t worry, I don’t hit my head on the ceiling when I run on the treadmill.  It sure looks like I should though but it is just an optical illusion.

I haven’t been on my treadmill in months and I remembered why as soon as I finished my 5 miles.  Those shin splints of mine fire up a little every time that I do.  I must run differently on the treadmill than I do outside.  I should work on that.  

My run was done during Brooke’s nap time.  If I don’t have friends to run with in the morning running doesn’t really happen in the morning.

IMG 0269

The camera comes out and she now says cheese and smiles.

IMG 0264

We have been running around all day trying to get things done before I leave tomorrow to Thailand and Brooke leaves to California (my mom is taking her out to her dad this time.  Yes, I do have the world’s best mom).  I am going to miss her like crazy but I am so ready for this adventure.  A friend sent me this list of things to do while I am there:

IMG 9611

The above list is my new itinerary for the trip.  

Brooke wanted to say goodbye to her boyfriend before leaving.

IMG 9610

And we are getting a lot of snuggling in over here.

IMG 9609

Time for us to go watch some horses.  One of our biggest passions lately.

IMG 9585

Anyone else see this article on Runner’s World?

Screen Shot 2014 03 26 at 2 08 51 PM

It goes over the reasons why some runners gain weight during training etc. etc. etc. but I thought it was interesting at the end that they said 44% of people that took their poll said that they gained weight during marathon training.  I notice I am way more hungry as my mileage goes up but I don’t ever weight myself (at least I haven’t in about a year) so I have no idea if I gain weight or not as I am training for this marathon).  I also haven’t done a marathon in a long long time so I don’t even remember what happened during my last marathon training cycle.  I am always interested in what you guys have to say and what your experience was about anything and everything related to running/food!

——————————————————————-

Anything hurt more on your body when you are running on the treadmill vs. running outside?

Marathoners—>  Did you gain weight during marathon training?

What time was your run done today?

How often do you weigh yourself lately?

You May Also Like

148 comments

Reply

My brain hurts when I run on a treadmill. Every mile is torture. I can’t do it.

I gain weight when I train for a marathon, but most of it’s muscle, I’m more toned.

I never weigh myself.

Reply

You got me worried, we just got a treadmill and now I wonder if I can get used to running on it now.

http://runningschlub.blogspot.com/

Reply

I love running on my treadmill…lately I’ve been running with no music/tv because I like listening to my steps and breathing. (I know, weird, but for some reason I like it)

Reply

Ive always run with music unless it was a buddy run since we are talking the whole time. I recently transitioned to no music and its a little strange for me listening to all the huffing and puffing but I think I can get used to it with more training.

Reply

I’ve gotta say, I love my treadmill too. It’s so convenient, saves me time (just shorts and a bra, don’t have to get bundled up!), and I can run in the wee hours of the morning with no safety concerns. I watch movies/TV while I run. Just ran 10 miles on it this morning before 7am :)

Reply

Thats funny, thats how my fiance has been running lately. Wow 10 miles, I hope I can build the staying power for that type of run. I ran 3.5 miles on the treadmill last night and was about done after that lol.

Reply

Whenever I run on the treadmill I tend to ball up my fists and then I end up hitting the front several times (not on purpose) but needless to say I get bruised knuckles so that hurts.

I gained about 5 pounds during marathon training but I was also moving and eating out a lot in my fall 2013 adventures. I

Ugh I had to run at 5:15 this morning and it was cold and windy. Lame.

Oh also on your Thailand to do list…pet one of the random elephants that roams the streets. When we went there (while dad was in the navy) it was definetely in the top five I my childhood memories!

Reply

I tend to kick the base of the treadmill when I run, speed up too much and get to close. So I can relate to your bruised knuckles.

http://runningschlub.blogspot.com/

Reply

One more thing to add to your Thai adventures. Do a traditional Thai cooking class!! Its incredible and you eat everything you make and they teach you how to make amazing pad thai, curries, and desserts. I’d love to do another one one day!

I weigh myself only about once ever 3-4 weeks just to check in. I try not to live and breathe by that number and go by how my clothes are fitting instead. Have the best time on your trip!!!!

Reply

I’m so sad because I typed up a longish comment (from mobile it seems long) and your blog went pacman on it and ate it. Anyways-

I gained about 5 pounds last fall. I’m not sure if that is from marathon training or the fact that I moved around and was constantly eating out, ect. Oh well that’s what happened hahaha but I’m blame running. :p

Also when you to to Thailand, try and take a photo with one of the elephants roaming the street. When dad was in the navy and we visited it was one of the top five memories I had from then.

Whenever I run on the treadmill I tend to ball up my fists and end up accident I punching the treadmill. Therefore my knuckles tend to always hurt. LOL…apparently I should look into treadmill boxing…

Reply

Oh look! Now it posted twice! I guess that means I’m off the hook from commenting next post. ;)

Reply

The treadmill and I just are not friends. Everything hurts after running on it. 99.99999% of the time I run outside.

I’ve never run a marathon, but I’m training for a half, and YES. I have gained weight. Not a ton, but enough that I notice. But hey, if I’m hungry, I’m going to eat. :) It’s probably a combination of that, and just coming off an injury. I’m usually just as hungry when I don’t run as when I do. ;)

I had 5 miles done this morning before 10:15, in other words, before I’m normally awake. It was a good time though.

Lately I haven’t been weighing myself. It’s been awhile. And I don’t miss it at all. :)

Reply

When I run on the gym’s treadmill I am fine, but on mine lately I have been getting shin/ankle/calf pain, so I have really been trying to wake up early again and get to the gym or go outside so I don’t have to use mine.

I didn’t gain weight, but I didn’t lose any either when I trained for my marathon. I can tell you this, you are not gaining weight during your training! Each time I see you I think how teeny (but healthy) and amazing you look!

I haven’t weighed myself since about a month before getting pregnant. Well, I guess I still get weighed each month but I don’t look at the number and I don’t intend to look at the number until after she arrives. #ignoranceisbliss for me

I think that itinerary sounds straight up amazing. Please do it and soak it all up. I could not be more envious right now.

Reply

I’ve never trained for a marathon, but I know I gained a few pounds training for Ironman.

Have an awesome time in Thailand! I can’t wait to hear about it!

Reply

Looks like the greatest Thailand plan of all time. Mango sticky rice sounds like heaven on a plate…or in a bowl. Whatever.

Reply

Today is a rest day for meee :) I don’t weigh myself either, or have’t in months, but yep, I’ve definitely gained weight marathon training. And I put on about 5-10 lbs upon turning 27. That was no fun. But it happened. My soul hurts more when I run on the treadmill, but that’s about it.

Reply

I did a tempo run right before reading this! I slept through my morning workout time.. oops.

Reply

Have so much fun! And a safe flight!

Nothing hurts more on a treadmill, if anything, it’s where I go if I need things to hurt less :) I haven’t weighed myself in months but I rarely do anyway, maybe a few times a year? I’ve been the same since I was like 18 though so it doesn’t do me much good to check.

Reply

I’m glad I’m not the only one that gets relief on the treadmill. The pavement and cement do a number on my knees.

http://runningschlub.blogspot.com/

Reply

Oh Brooke you are the cutest, most precious girl. I just love your smile. I hope you get lots of pictures while you are away & Brooke is away. That always helps. Would be awesome if you could Facetime or Skype. I know little Brooke will miss you, and I know without a doubt you will miss her…BUT I am SO excited for your trip!! Soak it up! & can’t wait to live vicariously through you & your pictures. Xo

Reply

During training for my first half marathon I stayed about the same weight even though I had expected to lose some. During my second half marathon training I did lose weight… even though I didn’t expect to. I did more long runs the second time which may have been why, although I also felt like I compensated by eating more delicious food :) I will be interested to see what happens when I start marathon training in about a month or so!

Reply

That itinerary looks awesome!!!! I hope you have the best time ever! I don’t know if I gain weight during marathon training because I don’t really weigh myself. My clothes seem to fit the same but I do feel a bit more dense these days. Lol.

Reply

I still can’t believe you’re going to Thailand! AMAZING! I hope you get to do every single thing on that list, missy!

I run different on the treadmill, as well. Nothing hurts, but it’s not an efficient gait. I feel like there’s a difference between being in “running shape”, and being in “treadmill shape”.

I weigh about the same throughout marathon training. It’s the taper where I have to convince myself that I’m just bored-eating.

6:00am! I love getting it done early!

I weigh myself about every one to two weeks. I’m pretty in-tune with my body weight (running helps keep that crap in-check somehow), and don’t really need to check all that often.

Reply

Thai massages are amazing! They are only like 5 US bucks over there! I got one almost every night I was in Thailand. And the market is amazing in Bangkok ! I ride elephants in Chang Mai. ;). Have fun!

Reply

I definitely gained weight during my training!

Reply

You must be super excited by now, time is running out. Super cute that she smiles and says cheese, our little one just started doing that too. Looks like a great list for your travels.

Hurt more – Nope, got the opposite, ITB doesnt hurt when I run on treadmill
Time Was Your Run – It will be later tonight
Weight Myself – What is that??? Never weigh myself.

http://runningschlub.blogspot.com/

Reply

Never run on a treadmill, only outside. I cannot imagine doing it inside ever.

I am training for a marathon right now and am in week 13 and have not gained weight. So far. 37 more days to go.

I ran at 4 am this morning. zzzzzzzzz.

I weigh myself every single day. I was very overweight for a long time and for me it keeps myself in line.

BTW I stalk your blog multiple times a day. First time I have ever commented :)

PS> HAVE FUN!!!!!!!! PSS> I live in California.

Reply

Dont worry I stalk this blog too. Great read and it makes work go by faster lol.

http://runningschlub.blogspot.com/

Reply

I second the point to learn a few thai phrases. They are so grateful when people try to talk their language!

Reply

I gained 3-4 pounds during marathon training. I have a tough time running more than 3 miles on the treadmill. I get SO bored! Running with friends definitely makes the miles go by the fastest. I weigh myself every other morning to keep myself in check. :) Have a blast in Thailand! Can’t wait to read all about it!

Reply

Your To Do list for Thailand sounds fabulous. I hope you have a super fun time!!

Reply

I was starting to do the daily weigh in which isn’t cool. My day would be decided by a number on the scale. So I have scaled back (get it) to once a week or less. I try and go by how my clothes fit. I definitely felt more bloated and still do when marathon training it’s peak mileage weeks. I tend to eat a lot more of the white stuff (bagels and pretzels) and more sugar (chews and shot blocks) as well as big reward meals on those long run days. But I mostly stay within 5 pounds of my set weight.

Reply

I weigh myself about once a year (maybe), so I wouldn’t know if I gain weight during marathon training. My guess is no. :)

I think running on the treadmill is easier on my joints than the road, so to me it feels good. Do you set it at an incline? Just thinking that if you did that would put constant stress on your calves and aggravate your shin splints, as opposed to the varying terrain outside that gives them a break now and then.

Reply

Have a fantastic trip! That itinerary sounds FAB!

Sarah
http://www.thinfluenced.com

Reply

I agree that I think the treadmill is easier on your body, but my brain can’t handle it.
I am training for my third marathon right now, and I’ve noticed a serious increase in appetite. I try to make “good” choices, but I find myself eating CONSTANTLY. I’ve put on a few pounds, but I’m not going to deny myself food if I am legitimately hungry.
I ran at noon during my lunch break, thinking the wind would be better, nope! Hi 20 mph winds, not fun.
I weigh myself daily, bad habit.
Have a blast in Thailand!

Reply

I really hope you can post while in Thailand! Have THE VERY BEST time!
I had to break up with my treadmill after so many injuries. My PT and I decided it wasn’t my friend. And funny enough, he bought it from me for his clinic for when he evaluates patients (I am happy it has a new home and being put to good use to help others). I ran outside at 5 am today. I never get on the scale. I am actually underweight so I don’t want to see the low number because it just frustrates me.

Reply

Brooke looks so big, have a great time on your trip!

Reply

I gained a solid 5 lbs. during marathon training. I was starving all the time once I really started upping my mileage, and thus began my intense love affair with peanut butter, apple and raisin Ezekial bread sandwiches that I just couldn’t seem to end, even after I finished the race. Funny how before marathon training I could care less about peanut butter, and now my day isn’t complete unless I’ve had my daily dose :)

Reply

Agree to this! It’s almost impossible to get rid of some of my marathon eating habits.

Reply

Brooke pointing, so cute! I bed you are SO EXCITED about Thailand!!!! The treadmill only hurts my soul…. seriously.

Reply

Brooke looks so cute owning the camera in her little yellow outfit. Have a wonderful time in Thailand and make sure you spoil the heck out of yourself. :)

I typically get really toned when training for a marathon and lose a few pounds, but no real significant differences. I am still conscious about what I eat and make sure I am properly fueling my body.

Reply

Have so much fun in Thailand!!!!!! I second the “daily Thai massage” recommendation–BUT in my experience, massages in Thailand are juuuust a bit different than massages back at home, so be prepared! I got a massage in the Bangkok airport, so I thought it would be tamer than some…but their idea of draping was to place a hand towel over either the top half or bottom half of you, but not both at the same time, because, well, it’s the size of a hand towel. The massage itself was excellent, very deep like I like it, but it was a lot more, ahem, full body than I’m used to. Hard to relax when you’re not sure where the hands are gonna go next! The massage therapist didn’t speak much English, so it was a little difficult to communicate with her, and I ended up crossing my fingers and hoping nothing too crazy happened, and it ended up being fine. Also, other spa employees kept poking their heads in to talk to the massage therapist while I was on the table, which was a little weird, but I don’t think they thought anything of it. I had some pretty serious bruising in the inner thigh area, but overall, it was good for a laugh. Just one of many funny/slightly crazy experiences while I was there. You’re in for a treat!

Reply

I don’t think Ive ever gained weight while training for a marathon but I am somewhat conscious about what I am eating…I try to make sure I am getting enough healthy foods and then I don’t find myself overeating junk food.

Reply

I did my run at about 2pm today, which felt nice in the sun. I did gain weight during my last marathon training cycle, but only about 4 pounds or so. I hadn’t weighed myself in awhile, but then recently started doing it again, once a week just to see where I’m at. I gained a few more after my marathon in October, but now I’m back down to about the weight I raced that at – but I’ve also been adding in weight training so I’m hoping some of it is muscle weight!!

Reply

http://expertvagabond.com/elephants-in-thailand/

You will love Thailand, but please, please, please don’t ride an elephant.

Reply

Looks like a great itinerary to me!!

I gained weight during one of my marathon trainings–but it’s because I overate emotionally. I don’t weigh myself ever –I just want more muscle, so the scale would be stupid!

Reply

I ran 3 miles during my lunch break today and I also noticed my shins were killing me! It’s something about the ‘mill that makes them hurt more, grrr!

Love the itinerary! Sooooo jealous of your trip!

Reply

I tend to gain weight if I’m training for a half or more. I’m sure it’s muscle, but I’ve stopped weighing myself as much. I am just happy to be fit and know that my body is strong enough to get the job done. My run today was around 11 am on the treadmill. This weekend it should be warmer, so I’m taking my long run outdoors. Can’t wait! Enjoy Thailand!!! :D

Reply

Have an amazing time in Thailand Janae!!

Reply

This is freaky Janae! I was just pretty much googling “weight gain during marathon training” because I had gained about 5 pounds in the 6 weeks since I had started. It is definitely all muscle so I’m not too concerned and in high mileage weeks I am certainly hungrier! Food = fuel :)

I am so excited for you going to Thailand!

Reply

safe travels to thailand!!! i’m going in august so i’ve already written down what your friend suggested (thanks to your friend) and can’t wait to hear about your adventures!!

Reply

I hope you have an amazing, stress-free, full of adventure vacation Janae and come back feeling rejuvenated and more at peace. :) Take lots of pictures and maybe journal your adventures (for you personally) so you can look back at this when you are older. Safe and happy travels! :)

Reply

I haven’t gotten to workout, run, or move much.. been teaching all day.

I never weigh myself. Although I think working-out increases my appetite (I don’t really have a big appetite: at all), and the more I workout the more I eat and stay at a healthy weight.

EAT SO MUCH FRUIT FOR ME!

Reply

Safe travels. And, yes, eat all the mango sticky rice you can. Heck, eat all the delicious Thai food you can. Yum. And please take lots of pics for us!!

Reply

I’ve never done a marathon but I lost weight during my half training (minimal-like 2-3lbs). I didn’t run today but I did do a killer arm workout so I know feel like jello arms. Have soooo much fun in Thailand! I can’t wait to hear/see it all!

Reply

I tend to just feel a little more stiff after running on the treadmill. Too much of the exact same motion? I try to mix up the incline a bit to keep it from being the same step for my whole run.

I don’t own a scale, so I only get weighed at the doctor. I go off of how my clothes fit, that number on the scale can start to feel a little too important sometimes.

Reply

I gained about 10 lbs when I was 19 and training for a marathon (I hit injured and never ran it) and went from having twiggy nobbley knee legs to having thighs and muscle, so I bought new pants and didn’t complain!

I eat a lot regardless of training though–so I don’t know that my diet was hugely different.

Reply

I definitely gained weight when I trained for my marathon.

Reply

I usually feel the shins a few days later if I don’t up the incline on the treadmill. Luckily, I usually just ice and foam roll my shins (I know it sounds weird) and it helps immensely. My legs are back to normal the next day. Because of my work schedule, probably about half of my marathon training has been on a treadmill. Long runs always outside, but during the week, it’s too dark when I get home to run!

I’m training for my first marathon right now and I do feel like I’ve gained weight. And not good, muscle weight. As the big day gets closer, I’ve slowed my lifting schedule and don’t get as much heavy weight work in as I used to and I think that’s having an impact. Plus I am starving!!!

No run today, just some yoga!

Never. I only weigh myself when I feel like I’ll be semi-pleased with the outcome aka not right now ;)

Reply

WOW!!! You are flying 19 hours to Thailand! Sometimes I forget that you live in USA and I am in Australia (which is only 5-6 hours from Thailand)!! You DEFINATLEY (yes capitals!!!!) have to go to Swensens Ice creamery there!!! The chocolate brownie sundae (NO NUTS!!!) are… there are actually no words to describe it!!!! YUM!!!!!!!!

Reply

I have not trained for a marathon in a long time, 6 years I think. I have done halfs since then but no fulls. In any case I found that during years that I had a few long races, I struggled to maintain my weight. I just could not eat enough and maybe it was too much for my body. I was a marathon training coach for about 7 years too so that played into it, had to do some easy miles with my team and then faster for my own training. The years that I just did 1 full and maybe some smaller races, I. Never lost and had to make sure I was not giving myself free reign just because I did a lot of miles!

Reply

I actually hurt more after outside runs. Probably cause my neighborhood is hilly though!
I havent been running much because I have a nasty sinus infection and the meds.Im on upset my tummy. I did do 40 min on the stairclimber, 20 min on the bike and 20 min on the elliptical though. It felt awesome and flew by.
I do not weigh myself, ever. When I was still dealing with my eating disorders I weighed myself several times a day and drove myself nuts. I dont ever want to be that person again so I avoid the scale completely. Besides that, I really just dont feel the need to know. My pants button, its all good.

Reply

That itinerary sounds amazing! In fact, I want a massage WHILE riding an elephant WHILE eating sticky rice. yep.

My body actually appreciates the treadmill more than the road! Less impact I suppose but I can only go nowhere fast for so long before getting bored … outside > inside

No run for today, but I went for a 40 minute walk in this beautiful FL weather listening to my church’s latest podcast. I’m starting to dig those more than music these days!

I was weighing myself everyday until about 3 weeks ago. The scale is silly :)

Reply

I don’t believe I gain or lose during marathon training, but my hunger definitely increases. I rarely weigh myself unless I notice my clothes not fitting normally, and then it’s more out of curiosity. It’s only a number, and not an important one to me.

I ran around 4 p.m. today on the treadmill where I did my speed work. It was torturous, but I’m so glad it’s done. I’m usually stiff afterwards, but I credit that to the crazy sprinting. The treadmill is tough for me, so I’ve been getting creative in making the time spent there bearable. http://livedreamrun.wordpress.com//03/02/treadmill-musings/

I love Brookes’s hair up in a bun…adorable!

Safe travels!

Reply

That itinerary is awesome! :)

Reply

I weigh myself every day out of habit more than anything else. During marathon training I always end up losing pounds. I have such a high metabolism. Have a great time in Thailand!

Reply

I gained weight during marathon training despite trying to still eat a healthy, balanced diet. I think it’s a mix of muscle mass, water retention, and stress on the body. All that running is a form of physical stress and stress can cause weight gain in some…at least that’s how my body reacts to it! I dropped it relatively quickly afterwards…took a 4 month break from running and did only yoga…it was lovely :) I’m not cut out for all that running like you are!

Reply

I don’t gain weight, I actually struggle to keep weight on! I was weighed today at the doctor for my 6 week post-partum checkup. I am all set to run again!

Reply

I actually put some pounds that I had previously lost back on while training for a HALF marathon recently. Oops…lol

Reply

I’ve done 2 marathons and I definitely gained a little weight both times. The second marathon my hunger was out of controllllll. I haven’t done a full marathon since, but I would like to next year and see if I could do it without gaining! It’s tough!

Reply

I typically love the treadmill… I get to zone out and watch TV, I could go for hours… If I get too addicted my shins do really bother me.

When I trained for my first marathon I lost weight… Not a lot. And I agree I was def hungrier and I ate all of the time but my metabolism must have just sky-rocketed.

I typically weigh myself every day! Partially bc I’m a bit OCD but also it’s part I of my morning routine… I know it sounds nuts but I just like to know, ya know?

It’s 8:10eastern time and it was another cold day so I just put the kiddos to bed and I’m going to head to the gym:( why do I do this to myself:(

Enjoy your trip! I can’t wait to see pic! I know you must be over the moon but I’m pretty siked for you! Safe travels to you AND to little miss brookie

Reply

The token male pipes in and says, YEP! I do gain weight while marathon training. I posted about it in “Hungry Runner Guy: Long Runs Are Making Me Fat” http://markmatthewsauthor.blogspot.com/2013/08/hungry-runner-guy-long-runs-are-making.html

Eating is easier with lesser miles.

Reply

I haven’t weighed myself for about a year. If I do I feel that it will lead to bad thoughts and back to ED’s! I do get hungrier when I was training for a half marathon. I also eat more. I get shin splints on the treadmill too! I hate it! My run today was done at about 4;00 pm. Gotta love track after school :)

have an awesome time in Thailand!!!!!

Reply

I think the last time I weighed myself was when I had my physical last July. Be careful with the horses!! My parents know from experience that it turns into an expensive obsession/passion really quick :)

Reply

My friend gained weight when we trained for our last half. I’ve been having shin issues too…maybe mine are from the treadmill too???

Reply

Where in Thailand are you going? I have lots of tips!

Reply

I gained about 5 lbs marathon training! I blogged about it here: http://www.breathedeeplyandsmile.com/2013/08/marathon-training-and-weight-gain-say.html

Reply

My weight bounced around a lot during marathon training. Ultimately I think it went up 2-3 lbs, and then up another 2-3 lbs in the month after when I wasn’t running much.

Is the Swensens in Thailand the same as the one that used to be in the States (or at least in California)? My mom has been a fan of Swiss Orange Chip for decades, and she passed that love on to me. There’s still a place near her that makes it, so I have to go there every time I visit. But if it’s also in Thailand then that gives me another reason to go to Thailand!

Reply

Glad to know about your shins. I brought my runs in on the treadmill due o the dreadful winter and soon as I did I thought I had another stress fracture . I’ve taken the last weeks off of running and headed outside today. So far no pain. We shall see. Not stepping on the treadmill agin though!

Reply

Remember when we started talking years ago and the conversation was to gain weight. Nothing helped me do that more than training for a half marathon. The appetite running gave me is what I needed to eat more cals! But I can easily see how if someone started from normal weight, they might be like hmmmmmmmm.

I weigh myself only when I feel my clothes feels different, which means once a month. You’d think I’d know it is hormones by now.

Reply

MANGO. STICKY. RICE. EVERYDAY. You will be in love. Safe travels to you!!!

Reply

I feel like I run better on the treadmill because I don’t have to think about anything else. No cars, bumps, rocks or turns to think about, just running! I weigh myself every other week just out if curiosity.

Reply

I always gain weight every time I train for a marathon….And I stay away from scales, they just make you cry! I use mine for a door stop now, works great.

Reply

I’m a little concerned that we’re talking about weight gain amongst marathoners…it sends the message that we should be focused on that above all. Why is everything about weight?

Reply

I hurt my hips every single time I use the treadmill. Once I tore cartilage. So never again will I use the treadmill.

I gained weight training for my first marathon. I thought training would cancel out everything I ate, so I ate a lot of junk. Now I peak at a much higher mileage and am more mindful about eating, so I lose during training and gain it back during taper.

Have fun in Thailand!

Reply

I lost weight training for my first marathon and ran another 6 months later and gained weight training for that one. My time improved on the second one too. I just love the amount of food I get to eat guilt-free when I’m training. :)

Reply

I gain weight every time I train for a marathon!!! So weird….
I have also gained weight since I stopped drinking diet coke?…..has that happened to you? It is the only change I have made in my diet and this week I put on 5 lbs….not a huge deal, just weird.
I weigh myself every 3 or 4 days, which I think is too much…but I still do.

Reply

Enjoy your trip! I have been and it is a gorgeous place. I just wanted to share a link with a heads up for travel there. I watched an investigative news show here in Canada called The Fifth Estate and they recently aired a story about something to watch for when traveling there. Here is a link to the story of a couple Canadian girls. Always best to be informed when we travel to places unknown!
http://www.cbc.ca/news/deaths-of-quebec-women-in-thailand-may-have-been-caused-by-pesticide-1.2569434

Reply

I hope you have the best trip Janae!!!!!!!! I can’t wait to see your pictures from Thailand. Eat some great food for us :)

My run was done at 6 pm today after work. At least it’s daylight longer and it was done outside! Also, I totally agree that running on the treadmill feels different. My foot or knee start hurting on the treadmill.

Reply

further to my previous comment…i think this links to the actual episode…

http://www.cbc.ca/fifth/episodes/2013-2014/return-to-paradise

Reply

I’m one of the weird ones that likes running on a treadmill :) I tend to pick one at the gym where I have a good view of the tv’s, pump my music up and go. It’s especially helpful now that I’m pregnant as I’m a little terrified of being outside, alone, and stranded or something going wrong. I take my little guy to the gym around 11am to get it out of the way.

When I trained for my first half marathon last year I did great but gained about 4lbs a few days before from carb loading and my clothes were slightly uncomfortable! I did much better for my marathon and only gained 1-2 but didn’t lose anything during any of my training. At the moment I’ve been doing awesome and only weigh myself 1 or 2 times a week – if even. I gained 60lbs during my first pregnancy and have no interest in doing that again! Luckily I’m still running between 15-25 miles an week (17 weeks tomorrow!) so that’s a huge help. I stopped exercising the first time around which was a horrible idea. Hope you have a great trip!!!

Reply

I dont really gain weight but because I am not weight lifting for as long I lose the muscle tone I generally have and then my clothes dont fit right. I definitely eat more but I have to in order to function. Having a -1400 calorie day does me know favors in terms of energy. I find I am especially losing tone in my top half (where I tend to gain weight) with triathlon training at this point. So much of my energy is spent on running, long run, Brick workouts, biking and swimming and stretching that I dont get in all the weight time I need to to stay toned up top so I get squishy in the middle lol

Reply

Couldn’t run today due to the dust storms in AZ. So windy! It’s scary driving!! That itinerary sounds too good to be true!! Taste Thailand ice cream and let us know how it is!!!!

Reply

I’ve heard that your hamstrings have to work a little harder when running on the treadmill in order to finish each stride. Not sure if it’s true, but I definitely think form changes ever so slightly when on the treadmill… And that likely leads to at least some pain, stress, or worse. 2 years ago a suffered a torn labrum in my hip while doing intervals on a treadmill. Couldn’t run for 3 mos :(

Sample size of one, but that’s my experience.

Reply

I honestly try to stay off the scale because my weight can fluctuate so quickly. I have really been focusing on making sure that I keep my form the same inside on the treadmill and out – I have gotten a lot better but it still a work in progress.

Reply

I’ve heard that your hamstrings have to work a little harder when running on the treadmill in order to finish each stride. Not sure if it’s true, but I definitely think form changes ever so slightly when on the treadmill… And that likely leads to at least some pain, stress, or worse. 2 years ago I suffered a torn labrum in my hip while doing intervals on a treadmill. Couldn’t run for 3 mos :(

Sample size of one, but that’s my experience.

Reply

I am not training for anything, but run 40-45 miles a week. Yup. Packing in the pounds. I am a junk food addict, so I am not shocked. Just kinda funny. I do NOT have a runner’s physique. I run to eat more, what can I say! I ran at 5:30 this morning. I get shin splints on the treadmill, and instant ADD. If it is too icy or below 10 degrees (ish) I just skip a day of running. Poke my eyeballs out! Have a safe a fabulous trip!

Reply

The best pad thai in Thailand is sold for next to nothing from street carts. Eat it! It is literally the best ever and they cook it in front of you. Enjoy!!

Reply

Oh damn, and another food suggestion… thai pancakes. Also sold from street carts. They put various delish fillings in! Looking forward to your thai update :-)

Reply

I hadn’t weighed myself in MONTHS until I went to the Dr. a few weeks ago….and found out that I gained 8 pounds….And prior to that, I wanted to KINDA lose 10, so here we go again…cutting out those delicious carbs. :(
I think everything hurts when I run on the treadmill! And then this winter, right after my first “road run”, after running on the TM for months, I injured my knee! :( I hate the TM.

Reply

Literally just got back from SLC – such an awesome place, i have tons of pics with the mountains so it was cool to see that pic of Brooke!

Reply

I gained weight during my first training cycle, lost weight during my second, third, and fourth marathon training cycles, and now in my fifth training cycle I’m packing on the pounds like nobody’s business. I’m hungry all the time and I can’t stop obsessing over the weight gain. I’m faster and stronger than ever but all I can focus on is the weight.

Reply

I ran 3 marathons in the space of a year last year and I found that I gained a bit of weight through all of them. I ran my most recent one in October 2013 and I only feel in the past couple of months that I have finally lost “the marathon weight”. I couldn’t figure out why I was gaining because I was trying to be careful with my diet – maybe I wasn’t eating enough?! For the next marathon I plan to see a dietician or a nutritionist to get help with my fueling so that I can avoid gaining that weight again.

Reply

Haven’t done a full marathon yet but during a half training I went down an entire pant size buuuuuuuut when I went to the doctor for a check up (never weigh myself at home) I had gained 5 pounds. Obviously it was muscle. So all weight gain is bad :-)

Reply

My mind hurts more when on a treadmill – its so dull. Running outside is so much nicer!

My weight stays fairly consistent across all my training. I can never seem to shed any, yet never much any on. I rarely weigh myself though (so i cant back that up much…)

Reply

HA! I feel off my treadmill once and rather than just letting so and calmly rolling off the end I decided to cling to it for life as I tried to get my feet back under me. I still have a scar on my knee from the burn I got from the belt. It’s my I’m not a good treadmill runner scar and I love it. Not my proudest moment but it makes for a fun story.

Reply

The doctor weighs me every other week these days. It’s kind of fun to see how big I’ve gotten, but then also weird, because I know that a good chunk of that is an other human!

I LOVE my treadmill. These days it feels significantly easier than running outside, especially since it’s close to a bathroom! I’ll probably run today at 9 and be done by 10ish? Hopefully.

Reply

My knees hurt more on the treadmill than they do on pavement, i’m not sure really why. OH and one weird thing i always do is take my wedding ring off because I am forever wacking my hands on the treadmill when I am running on it and i am afraid that i will crack my ruby! :)

I think i DO gain weight during marathon training. As soon as my “long runs” are over and done with- I drop like 5-10 lbs within a couple weeks. I think its also PRESSURE that i put myself under too that adds to it!

Reply

I’ve actually gone both ways. One time I gained a lot of weight marathon training (like 15 lbs!) and one time I lost 15 lbs marathon training. The 2nd time I think I was just doing it right. I ate when I was hungry. No trying to eat less for weight loss. I quit alcohol and sweets though, so I ate hearty, nutritious foods.

Reply

The one and only half I’ve trained for I lost weight, and it was awesome! But I do weigh myself every few days. I am just a few pounds shy of my baby weight so I’m trying to keep track!

Ps. Nice guns ;)

Reply

I don’t have access to a treadmill, so it is outside running or nothing. I don’t really care for the treadmill anyway though.

I did gain weight during marathon training, about 4 pounds. I told myself it is muscle so that it’s good, but I wish I didn’t care about numbers on the scale. I don’t weigh myself more than 2 or 3 times a month, but I want to get to that place where weight doesn’t matter. It’s a mental challenge!

My run today will happen at lunchtime…tomorrow the weather will be nasty and stormy so hopefully it will be dry and comfortable at lunch today.

Have a great trip!

Reply

I can definitely tell a difference when I run on the treadmill vs outside. I actually feel like I hurt less on the treadmill, but I just think it’s because it’s on a softer surface, I do think that I run differently too though. I wonder why that is?

I fluctuate by about 3-5 lbs at all times, so yes, unfortunately I do weigh myself, but I am usually around the same weight every day….unless I ate a lot of Starburst jellybeans the night before of course :)

Have so much fun in Thailand!!!!

Reply

I am so glad you wrote this post! I thought there was something wrong with me when I’d run on the treadmill for 2 reasons: 1) My Achilles area tends to be sore after the run :( 2) I can never seem to go as fast on a TM as I can when running outside :S

In terms of Marathon training, I’m currently training for Boston (Marathon #8) and every cycle, my appetite soars like a Titan when I’m in the mileage Build stage. However during the taper, I notice how much I’ve actually leaned out. I think it’s the adjustment of your calories in versus calories out and managing it nutritionally. I don’t actually own a scale but I can tell a difference in my physical appearance.

I can’t wait to hear all about your trip!!!!

Reply

Hahaha – my treadmill kind of has the same setup & I’ve never hit my head either. And YES – I must run differently on a ‘mill too cause it hurts my shins too – which never hurt running road.

Another artictle on the whoel marathon weight thing popped up the other day on WSJ… http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303949704579461381883678174?mg=reno64-wsj
I’ve done it both ways… lost weight and gained. It just depends on your focus. Are you hungry after a 20 miler?? Hell to the yes! But it just depends on WHAT YOU REFUEL with… If it’s a greasy burger, fries and a shake, then yes, you’ll gain weight. Basics remain, you can’t eat more calories than you burn.

Reply

I think I definitely tense up more when I’m on the treadmill – I’m always afraid that somehow it’s going to throw me off the machine, haha.

Have an amazing time in Thailand!!!

Reply

For running, I have to keep it consistant. Either run outside or run on the treadmill. Because I either run different, or because the surface I’m running on is different, I will get shin splits outside and on the treadmill. If I just stick to one, and let my body get use to it, I have no problems. The last time I weighed myself was at the doctor last year, and that was because they made haha. I like to stay away from weighing myself, it makes me obsessive, so I just go by how things fit :) Have fun in Thailand!!

Reply

I love my treadmill, the weather and terrain are always consistent and water/restrooms are always close by :-) I do enjoy running outside when I’m with someone else but I love my treadmill.

When I trained for my marathon, I gained weight and was bummed because I totally wanted to lose weight! I think it was muscle though.

And I weigh myself everyday. I grew up a fat kid and so I need to keep track of my weight, its the only way I can keep myself in line. It may not be the best mind set, but it works for me.

Reply

My shins go nuts on the treadmill.
I gained about 5 pounds during my marathon training.
I was done with my run at 5:30am :)
I weigh myself about every other week.

Reply

I try to only weight myself once a week and yes I do gain weight while marathon training…. which frustrates me… but after reading the article and seeing it’s pretty common, I don’t worry about it. Have a super fabulous time in Thailand!

My shins also hurt on the treadmill and I avoid that machine at any cost. I muchhhh prefer to run outside :)

Reply

I think I mentally adjust my gait on a treadmill and it makes my shins/calves hurt more than running outside.

Marathon weight gain – ugh! I gained 5 lbs training for my first last fall and I haven’t gotten on the scale in months this spring because I’m training again and I KNOW I have gained weight. To be fair, I also think that most of it is muscle (particularly in my thighs, since none of my pants fit comfortably there anymore), but I know I also eat a lot more when I’m training… so it ain’t all muscle, if you know what I mean.

Reply

I’ve been validated!! Yes, I get pain in my legs while on the treadmill – mostly shins and ankles. So many say they prefer the TM, so I thought I was crazy!

I lost weight during marathon training – picked it back up during the cold, cold winter when I didn’t run as much. I’m ready for spring so I can get outside and burn some butter!

My run will be later this afternoon, after it warms up some (which is relative)…

I don’t weigh myself, but my clothes feel different. That’s how I know to cut back on the junk and move a bit more!

Reply

I’ve been training for my first marathon since October. I haven’t gained any weight (the scale fluctuates a couple pounds up or down all the time; I don’t count that.) But my pants are falling off. I can’t believe how much my body has re-proportioned. I rarely weigh myself when I’m not in a training cycle, but I get a little crazy about it when I am training. I’ve never had any body issues, but I kind of do when I am training. I don’t like it.

I’ll be waiting to hear if you try durian while in Thailand. It’s a fruit that is not allowed in hotel rooms because of the smell. Knowing that deterred me from trying it. I also heard that it gives a person very stinky gas….Tell us if you like it!!

Reply

I gained about 5 lbs while marathon training. Butttt the race was a month ago and I’ve still got my five pounds, haha, sooo maybe it wasn’t the training, maybe it was just me! But I also don’t weigh myself, I just notice clothes getting tighter.

Your Thailand to-do list is PERFECT!

Reply

I love this article! What do you think about this with strong training half marathoners? I have found this same issue with my half marathon training (haven’t committed to a full yet-I don’t know how you do it in that Utah weather!) I know I don’t train as many miles as the full marathoners but I think I train harder for the halfs (working towards 1:40 PR) Anyway, thanks for this!
I don’t weight myself…used to all the time and it drove me crazy (you have a number you think/wish it would be & it’s not) so I just go on how I feel.

Reply

Hey, if the treadmill hurts your shins, feel free to send that bad boy over to me! I promise I will love it and use it…at least until it is actually nice outside.

Reply

I did gain a few pounds training for a marathon. I have not gained anything training for a half marathon or shorter distance… I think it was muscle and water, especially because my quads looked bigger and I tend to shrink up and get skinny, i.e., no muscles after training. And then my appetite goes downhill too… Training actually helps me to keep up a healthier appetite in my opinion. Can’t run hard without taking care of our bodies! I like running on the treadmill, but I do run in a shorter choppy motion that is a little stiff. Have a great day!

Reply

I don’t weigh myself very often, but I have gained about 3-4 pounds in marathon training. I’m 12 weeks in, and I do think I weigh more than I did in the late fall when I wasn’t training, but I’m also strength training more in addition to the increased mileage, so I’m thinking it’s more muscle than anything. I’m never too worried about the scale, I want to make sure I’m eating enough to fuel my runs and workouts, and if it makes me gain a little, so be it. As long as I feel good and I’m active, I’m happy!

Oh the treadmill, I don’t mind it, but sometimes it will give me a random pain that I probably wouldn’t get outside. Usually in my calf or shin.

Reply

I lean out with more mileage. But, as my coach, Andrew Kastor, explains…gaining a 1-2 lbs the week before is normal since you are tapering, but still eating and taking in lots of fluids. So, don’t be discouraged. That means you’re doing something right! :)

Running at 8am :) It’s snowy here in Mammoth, so we’ll drive down!

Reply

Please don’t ride the elephants! A lot of the animals are beaten into submission for tourists to ride them.

Of course – have a wonderful time on your trip! very jealous over here :)

Reply

I always wished I could go to Thailand. Have a safe trip and be careful.

Reply

My calves get tight on the treadmill but not when I run on the roads. My run was a treadmill one too today – just 30 minutes, rest tomorrow, and then 22 miles on Saturday!

I can’t wait to hear about your trip. I am planning a big trip for the fall but haven’t decided where to go. Maybe Thailand! Also considering Hawaii though…

Reply

I’m glad I am not the only one! I definitely gained weight when I trained for both of my marathons. My appetite spiked like crazy.

Reply

I run only on a treadmill these days. The Lifefitness ones at the gym have a nice spring deck that absorbs a lot of the shock. I’ve had 2 knee surgeries in the last 7 years; one for ACL tear and meniscus tear; and one for meniscus tear. The pounding of outside running tends to hurt my knees more.
I haven’t done a full marathon in years, so I don’t remember if I gained weight or not.
I try not to weigh myself and just go based on how my jeans fit.

Reply

YOU HAVE FO EAT MANGO STICKY RICE ITS AMAZING!!!!! And try the durian! I know, I know it smells nasty but it’s actually pretty good! The food is amazing! Don’t make yourself sick with all you eat! Try the mangosteen and dragon fruit and you have to visit those beach side markets. When you are shopping, go for the handmade stuff it’s way cooler. When I was there I bought those really cool handmade purses they made right on the beach. AND LASTLY GET A PEDICURE ON THE BEACH!

Thailand is an amazing place, sometimes I close my eyes and pretend I am still swimming in the ocean staring at the sunset. Sigh……

Reply

I definitely lost weight during my marathon training. But I was grateful because they were lbs I had been fighting to lose for years. Now I need to not let them creep back up! haha
AHH! Tomorrow!!! Girl have SO MUCH FUN!! I can’t wait to hear all about it!

Reply

I didn’t gain weight, but I did lose muscle. Therefore, I felt softer and a little bigger come marathon time…my mistake was cutting out almost all of my usual heavy strength training, and I could definitely see the difference. It was hard to remind myself to be grateful for my high-mileage body sometimes!

Reply

I generally gain a few lbs at the very end of training, even for a half marathon! I’m OK with it though — the body does what it needs to do :) And it always regulates in the end.

Reply

Personally, I was in the best shape of my life during marathon training. I gained 7 pounds afterwards, but that was expected and normal.

Reply

Definitely take a traditional Thai cooking class while you’re there!! It was one of my favorite parts, hands down. Have fun!!!

Reply

Everything for Thailand is spot on, except the riding elephants part! I went here (http://www.elephantnaturepark.org/) instead and was able to spend the day in the park with them! Such a better experience, and the elephants are in their natural habitat instead of on the streets on Bangkok!

Reply

That list for Thailand sounds perfect!!! My boss travels to Thailand a couple times a year and he would approve of all those things, but add: Eat Pineapple – it’s the sweetest you’ll ever find; drink a Thai Iced Coffee.

I’m training for a marathon in June and I can’t seem to stop eating!! I’m trying to be more conscious that I am putting in a lot of miles and restricting what I eat isn’t going to help me run faster…..but neither is stuffing my face! Finding a happy balance is what I’m striving for!

Reply

I gained 10 lbs for both marathons…..5 of which refuses to exit the premises! LOL

Reply

Anything hurt more on your body when you are running on the treadmill vs. running outside?
-Depends. Running on the trail has less of an effect on me. Treadmill is then next in line. The road hurts me the worst. If I don’t wear compression socks on the road, my shins kill me!

Marathoners—> Did you gain weight during marathon training?
I JUST did my first marathon on the 15th. I lost weight during training, but gained a few pounds after. I did have surgery so that may have had an impact on gaining those extra lbs.

What time was your run done today?
I haven’t ran in a few days. I just had surgery on Tuesday and am not able to do strenuous exercise for 2 weeks. Boo!

How often do you weigh yourself lately?
Way too much! Sometimes 2 times a day. Not even necessary! But it’s still habits from when I had an ED.

Reply

I gained weight marathon training also!

Reply

Sometimes people tend to overstride on the treadmill. That reaching can made the shin muscles work a little harder. You may need to up your speed a little and shorten your stride when on the treadmill. The treadmill belt does pull you along a little which changes mechanics a little.

Reply

ugh yes I did gain weight during marathont raining…10 lbs!! I’m trying to lose them now but it’s so true – when you’re training you obviously want to eat more, and sometimes I didn’t make the best decisions!

Reply

I gained weight during marathon training, but only about 3-5 lbs. I have heard that its not uncommon to gain weight during training because your muscles use and store more water. I also tend to weigh more when I get into higher mileage weeks. I don’t weigh myself much anymore, and usually go by the fit of my clothes.

I discovered your blog a few days ago and enjoy reading it! Have fun in Thailand!

Reply

I’m curious to find out what blog system you are working with?
I’m experiencing some small security issues with my latest site and I would like to
find something more secure. Do you have any solutions?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *