Can You Train for a Marathon and Do CrossFit? Let’s Find Out.
One of the most common things I hear is:
“You can’t do CrossFit and train for a marathon.”
People assume it’s one or the other—you’re either a runner or a lifter. But that’s just not true. With smart choices around workouts, recovery, and nutrition, you can absolutely do both—and perform better in each.
So I signed up for a marathon to prove it. Training starts Monday, and I’m excited to share what’s working, what’s not, and how you can combine both training styles safely and effectively.
Tips for Combining CrossFit with Marathon Training
1. Recovery Is Training
CrossFit and running each place different stress on the body. If you want to keep progressing in both, recovery has to be a priority—not an afterthought.
- Get 7–9 hours of sleep each night.
- Add stretching, foam rolling, or mobility work regularly.
- Don’t skip rest days—they’re where the real growth happens.
2. Fuel Smarter
You’re burning a lot of energy, so eating well is non-negotiable.
- Eat plenty of carbs to fuel long runs and intense WODs.
- Hit your protein goals (0.7–1g per pound of bodyweight) to support recovery.
- Stay hydrated, and consider electrolytes on longer training days.
- Time your meals around workouts for optimal energy and recovery.
3. Don’t Skip Strength—Adjust It
Running builds endurance, but CrossFit gives you the strength, balance, and injury resilience runners often lack.
- Focus on core lifts like squats, deadlifts, and presses.
- Dial back intensity or volume on lifting days after long runs.
- You don’t need to PR every week—just stay consistent.
4. Don’t Skip the Gym—Just Scale Smart
If you’re tired or sore, that doesn’t mean you should skip your workout altogether.
- Show up and scale movements, reps, or weights as needed.
- Prioritize quality over quantity.
- Keeping the habit strong matters more than going 100% every time.
5. Mix Up Your Running Intensity
Not every run should be long and slow. Variety keeps your training fun and effective.
- Include tempo runs, intervals, and recovery runs.
- Match intensity to how your body feels that day.
- Running smarter, not harder, prevents burnout.
6. Plan Ahead—But Stay Flexible
Balance takes some planning, especially when your week includes WODs and long runs.
- Map out 2–3 CrossFit workouts and 3–4 runs weekly.
- Stack hard runs and heavy lifts on the same day (with recovery the next).
- Be ready to adjust based on energy, soreness, or schedule changes.
7. Watch for Burnout
Pay attention to how you feel.
- Constant soreness, low motivation, or poor sleep are warning signs.
- Take an extra rest day or go for an easy walk or mobility session.
- More is not always better—smarter is better.
8. Know Your Why
Remember what you’re working toward. Whether it’s finishing a marathon, getting stronger, or just proving to yourself that you can do both—your “why” will keep you going when training gets tough.
Ready to Prove It’s Possible?
CrossFit and marathon training aren’t just compatible—they can actually make you better at both when done right. This journey is all about showing what’s possible when you make smart choices, stay consistent, and listen to your body.
Questions? Reach out—I’d love to hear from you!