Why Strength Training is Important for runners

​Strength training isn’t just for competitive weightlifters, cross fitters, or your average gym goer. Strength training is also important for the endurance athlete. Runners can benefit from strength training because it is key to maintaining muscle mass which can improve everyday movements, fitness and athletic performance.
Strength training helps improve many areas of your running:

• Power
• Endurance
• Balance
• Injury Prevention

Some runners neglect strength training because they want to get their miles in. Coach Marta and Coach Tiffany at PPT are avid runners who can help you reach your sport specific goals safely. Runners see huge benefits in their performance once they incorporate consistent strength training routines.

1. Decrease your risk of injury: by having muscular strength and stability especially in your legs then your body can handle the demands placed on it.
2. Improve muscle activation: by strengthening muscles in isolation, progressing to running specific exercises so the correct muscles are being activated on your runs.
3. Improve biomechanics and running: by strengthening the muscles that keep your body in alignment will improve your movement patterns which means less energy wasted and faster running. You will have better running form and get the most out of your run.

The best exercises for runners are ones that will help strengthen the core, glutes and hips. Runners need a strong core to help with posture, stability and balance. Glutes are already underactive but these muscles need to be strengthened to provide power for your running. These exercises include planks, kettlebell swing, side steps with resistance bands, single leg deadlifts, goblet squats. Add these exercises into your running schedule and you will be on your way to being a stronger runner all while minimizing risk of injury.