How would you train a client in her late 50s who is training for a half marathon?
My client is in great shape and keeps up her runs with a local running club. She works with me twice each week to supplement her running. I’m not able to do vertical jumping as per her chiropractor (was only doing 1-2 sets 1x per week) and single-leg work seems to aggravate an old ankle/calf injury. Basically I can’t do any of the regular things I would do with my runners. Any suggestions?
Hi Ariana,
If your client is keeping up with her running on her own, I would supplement some of her program with cross-training to keep her body strong and prevent injury. Running does use the whole body, and she still needs strength training for both upper and lower body. In addition, core work is also necessary. Planks (front and side) and bridge work are good choices to keep her abs, hips, and back strong.
To supplement the cardio portion needed for endurance, you could do strength/cardio intervals using kettlebells, battling ropes, TRX, low impact leg exercises, etc. that will not aggravate her ankle. Make sure she takes a day of rest during the week.
I teach interval classes of strength and cardio and have many runners in my classes who run races. The cross training with different modes of cardio/strength/core will keep your runner strong.
Good luck to her!
Christine