should I really continue to run when trying to gain muscle mass?

[tarheel10]

Hello,
So I've been running and lifting weights for about 8 months now. Initially, my primary (and perhaps lone) goal was to lose the innertube that I carried around my belly. I've made much progress on this goal, going from about 5'9", 195 pds to about 170 pounds. While I'm delighted with my strides, I have increased my lifting regime and want more results with muscles. I still have some gut to lose, so continue running probably about 3-4 times a week, reducing it only to about 2-3 miles etch run. Anyhow, I fear that my running has stymied my muscle production, although I've read several conflicting views to this stance. Any suggestions? I want to improve muscles mass, I lift etch muscle group for about an hour 1 time a week, so I'm putting in the effort, but haven't seen the muscle production I desire.

 

[Trek]

Post your diet, cardio & weight lifting can live happily together but the key is adequate nutrition and proper amounts of protein to minimize muscle loss.

 

[Adumb]

Yes. I had a friend that last I knew he was close to becoming a heavyweight pro bodybuilder and he said he does cardio 20 minutes, 3 days a week even when he's BULKING.

I split my cardio & workout. Right now I do 30-45 minutes of cardio in the morning, and then 20 minutes prior to lifting. Doing cardio before lifting not only gets your heart rate up for when you lift and helps to burn calories, but it also improves circulation which serves as a "prepping" before you lift. Circulation, of course, improves vascularity and muscle pumps, which may also help you lift more during your sessions.

Good luck!