Some runners (especially long distance runners) may find it hard to retain muscle as they shed pounds from their exercise. For those who perform High-Intensity Interval Training during their runs, they reap the benefits of losing weight and gaining muscle at the same time. When you are running your hardest, your muscles are going into overtime as they stretch and make room for new muscle growth. This new muscle will continue to improve your performance, and you won’t have to worry about those calves shrinking up. If muscle loss is really a concern, you can always try to add some weightlifting to your routine.

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