Have you had any success with muscle-building and strength programs for ultra-marathoners and endurance athletes?
I am currently training an ultra-marathoner who runs more than 50k per week. Her main goal is to build strength and gain muscle definition. Nutrition plays a massive role, obviously, and I’m wondering if any of you have had success with this type of situation? Cutting back on the distance running is not an option. I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Aimee,
All of these responses are amazing. We’re lucky to have this resource. Ill add just a little more. Loading the frame is often counterintuitive for endurance athletes and can often create a huge debate. Many trainers will maintain that resistance training stops at body weight. I’m of the opinion that theres a time and a place for everything.
What I would is this. Pay attention to the macro training cycle. Is this preseason etc. Loading in the frame in the “off season” (I know there’s no real off season for ultra marathons). Then reducing the work to frame work or form work during the season.