What are the best strength exercises for runners?
Hi Sandra,
I am by no means a runner. But I can tell you that a good old general strength training program is beneficial to everyone – regardless of the activity you’re involved in. I’m referring to the staple strength exercises that have been around forever – squats, lunges, dead lifts, bench presses, rows, shoulder presses, etc. & the many variations of them. And of course core strengthening – stability ball rollout, jack knife, arm/leg raise, and so on. Building up a good strength base with the basic movements will have a positive effect on any physical activity you do – including running. As far as specific running advice, listen to the others & not to me – good luck Sandra!
Paul Thomas
www.homeworkoutguy.com
I have been running for twenty years and completed several marathons, this is how I started training. First and most importantly is to have good running shoes. Go to a running store that specializes in running so you can be fitted properly. I would up my miles by 10% every two weeks. With having one hill training and speed training in my weekly training sessions. After the fourth week I would lower my mileage to about 60% for that one week for rest, then pick back up at the fourth week mileage to build the next four weeks. Now what did I do for strengthening, I would focus on running form, imagine a broom stick lined up against my back. This would help me pace better. Lower body weight program would be for me, I would be lower on weights with higher weights twice a week. I would also focus on core, lower back and a lot on my upper back and shoulders twice a week. I did do a little on chest and arms, but not as much as the others. My experience is that when my back and shoulders where strong it help my arm swing more comfortably after running for over three hours. Hope this helps:) Good Luck with your running!