How to Balance Running and Cutting Without Losing Your Mind?
I've been cutting for a few weeks now while still hitting my marathon training, and it can be a wild ride! The balance between maintaining energy for those long runs and staying in a caloric deficit is crucial, so I want to share some tips that have worked for me.
First, let's talk about numbers. For my cut, I aimed for a deficit of around 500 kcal/day. This means if my maintenance is about 2,500 kcal, I target around 2,000 kcal. But, as runners, we can't forget the importance of fueling those runs. On high-volume training days, I've found that incorporating a refeed day really helps, this usually looks like increasing my carb intake and around 200-300 kcal for that day. I pay attention to my hunger signals and try to manage them by eating high-fiber foods that keep me full without blowing my calorie budget.
Another key point is adjusting your running volume if necessary. If you're feeling super fatigued, consider cutting back on the mileage or intensity for a week. Listening to your body is vital! I also keep an eye on my performance: if I notice my times slipping, I know it's time to reassess my diet and possibly adjust those macros. Staying motivated can be tough during a cut, especially with the hunger pangs, but remember why you're doing this and keep your eyes on the prize! What strategies do you all use to keep up your running while cutting? Let's share some wisdom!