Program Analysis

10-Week Hybrid Hypertrophy & Half-Marathon Prep

Program Overview

This routine is an ambitious attempt to concurrently build muscle mass (hypertrophy), increase upper body power (calisthenics skills), and prepare for a half-marathon. It utilizes a Modified PPL (Push/Pull/Legs) + Upper/Lower split spread across 7 days. The volume is high, and the inclusion of skill work (handstands/muscle-ups) adds significant central nervous system (CNS) demand.

Weekly Schedule

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Workout Structure

  • Select a day from the left to see the breakdown.

⚑ Coach's Analysis

Reviewing specific days allows us to identify potential interference effects between running and lifting.

Strength Days
5/ week
Running Days
3/ week

*Includes sprint finisher

Peak Distance
36km/wk

Week 10 (Est)

Modality Balance

Running Progression

Weekly volume ramp-up over 10 weeks

Observation: The progression is linear and standard. The jump from Week 6 to 7 (13km to 15km long run) is moderate. The taper in Week 10 is crucial.

Volume & Recovery Audit

GOOD

Deadlift Periodization

Moving from 5x5 volume to heavy singles is an excellent way to peak strength without accumulating excessive hypertrophy fatigue as runs get longer.

RISK

The "Day 3 to Day 4" Interference

Day 3 is a heavy leg day (Squats, RDLs, Lunges). Day 4 is a medium run (up to 16km). Running on heavy, damaged legs increases injury risk and alters running mechanics.

NOTE

Upper Body Volume

Volume is very high (20+ sets per session). Ensure caloric intake supports this, or arm size may actually stall due to overtraining.

Professional Verdict

Is this routine effective?

Yes, but it is unforgiving. It tries to maximize everything at once. For a conditioned athlete with great recovery (food, sleep, stress management), it will yield results. For a beginner or someone with a stressful job, it leads to burnout by Week 4.

Suggested Modification

Swap Day 4 (Run) and Day 5 (Upper Power).

New Flow: Legs (Day 3) -> Upper Body (Day 4) -> Run (Day 5).
This gives your legs 24-48 hours of passive recovery before the medium distance run, ensuring better form and less joint stress.

8.5/10 Intensity Score

Requires Elite Recovery