Is it pointless to try and bulk up if you are a runner?
 

I run about 3 or 4 days a week, usually 4 to 7 miles at a fairly high intensity and do some free weights usually 3 days a week. I've decided I want to try and step up my workouts and put on some muscle mass, but is there any way to do this without cutting back on the running? When I talked to the guy at GNC he made it sound like running longer distances and getting bigger were mutually exclusive. What do you guys think?

Re: Is it pointless to try and bulk up if you are a runner?
 

You need to eat like hell and probably have some natural ability to gain muscle, or it will be extremely slow. I'd lift very heavy if I were you, because you don't need any more endurance going on.

Re: Is it pointless to try and bulk up if you are a runner?
 

Just based on what I've read in the last month, it seems like you could make some gains, but not a whole lot.

Re: Is it pointless to try and bulk up if you are a runner?
 

You're going to need a lot of calories, but it's possible.

Re: Is it pointless to try and bulk up if you are a runner?
 

Also if I lift and run in the same day is it better to lift before or after the run?

Would it be a good idea to get something like a protein supplement?

Re: Is it pointless to try and bulk up if you are a runner?
 

Yes your muscles are going to be demanding a lot of protein to rebuild

Re: Is it pointless to try and bulk up if you are a runner?
 

I have been getting pretty big with lifting 3 days a week and doing cardio for at least an hour 4 days a week.

Re: Is it pointless to try and bulk up if you are a runner?
 

I agree with what people have said so far - it is possible to some extent. You won't be getting huge per say, but you can definitely put visible size and some definition on your body.

How about lifting on the days you don't run? Alternate them.

As for the protein, yes yes yes.

Re: Is it pointless to try and bulk up if you are a runner?
 

Why do you run long distances? Just cause you enjoy it?

This may be controversial, but I'm of the opinion that running sprints is much better for both health and looks. Running long distances is tough on your joints and makes it difficult to build muscle.

Re: Is it pointless to try and bulk up if you are a runner?
 

You might not be able to "bulk up," but you can definitely get stronger. The perception that the only way to get stronger is to build tons of muscle mass is quite wrong.