I have been running for almost 20yrs. I love everything about it. But various injuries have slowed me down over the yrs. I started lifting weights a while ago and it's been great. Steady improvments and its always fun. My problem is I only have time to do one good workout a day. my wife and I are having a baby next month and I want to be a fit father. My question to everyone is should I train to be strong or should I stay focused on running?
Well, coming from a runner, I say just focus on running. But like I said, that is from a runner. As far as fitness is concerned, IMO, you can be strong from lifting weights, but not neccessarily in shape. You also have to look at what you are comfortable doing. If you are able to run a couple days a week and then lift weights on the others, or even if you are only able to lift weights and no running, at least you are concerned about doing some kind of exercise. You could just sit on your ass at home.
My other issue is that in 6 years I will be old enough to run the masters 800m at the drake relays. It would be nice to run in front of that crowd. A time of 2:00 could win it but even a time of 2:10 would look good. Do I keep chasing the next big race or do I just enjoy memories of my best races?
Run. Running will keep you healthier, especially in the long run than weight lifting. You don't have to be a competitive runner even if you don't want to be. Weight lifting though might end up translating into weight gain, which you might not want as you get older. I would stick with running.
Definately always go for that next race.. as long as that competitive spirit is in you you need to go after it.. although lifting some days would be beneficial to your health.
Run and lift. Focus less on fast racing, and focus more on feeling like a good animal. Don't keep chasing the next big race, especially a race that's six years down the road and, in the whole scheme of things, really isn't all that big anyway. You have more important things coming into your life right now. That's good. Congratulations.
What is the time length of your one workout per day? How long are your current weight sessions and what type of weight lifting are you talking about?
Just run for health and lift weights that equal your childs weight so you can through them up in the air.
(eg; family should come first before sport in an ideal world)