[sistergoldenhair]

It's fine to lift right after your shorter runs, just know that your legs will already be fatigued and that can affect your lifting. But since the point of lifting is to fatigue your muscles, hey, it could be a bonus!<br><br>
I agree with diablita about not lifting after long runs. That's when your legs most need recovery.<br><br>
Be sure to stretch well after you lift.<br><br>
Since you are trying to develop muscle to respond well in running events, I'd do some research or work with a trainer who is experienced with endurance athletes to find an endurance running-specific lifting program.

 

[sistergoldenhair]

I'd move to Atlanta if it was made worth my while. <img alt="wink.gif" src="http://files.kickrunners.com/smilies/wink.gif"><br><br>
Yes, give spinning a try! It's great cross-training and when you work with resistance on the bike, does add a strengthening element although it's not a substitute for weights.<br><br>
I hear you on the McGym trainers. What you might like to do is do some browsing of running web sites or marathon training books for specific conditioning programs. Like, what do our best amateur and pro marathoners do? It would take a little searching, but I bet the results would be helpful.