[emartin10]

I would concur. When you are running, especially competitively, then I would steer clear of a calorie deficit. I think if the goal is fat loss, then running can support that. If the goal is running well, then you need for your diet to support that goal. During my triathlon season, it's a struggle for me to eat enough to keep up with the calorie burn, so I don't ever try to lose weight in the summer. Now, not to toot my own horn, but a Half Ironman training plan probably burns more calories than a 5K plan. If I was in your situation, I would really consider timing your nutrition around your runs, and maybe on off days from running you can go into a bit of a deficit. But then you get into trying to support 2 goals that might not work together, as well as not fully focusing on recovery.

So after all that, I'd say pick your goal, and work towards that specific goal. Good luck!!!

E