Running Tip: Weight Training for Runners
As a runner, you likely know you should incorporate weight lifting into your routine. But are you really doing it? There are numerous benefits you can gain when you prioritize weight lifting.
It can improve your running efficiency and speed, by strengthening the muscles you use when you run. It can help you avoid injury, by fortifying the muscles and connective tissues surrounding the joints most susceptible to injury.
You should always create a balanced weight lifting routine. Just doing the same exercises over and over again is not going to give you the results you want.
Focus on two categories of exercises:
Compound movements with weights, like squats, lunges, and deadlifts
Body weight exercises, including planks, pushups, and bodyweight squats
Most runners find optimal results when doing 2 to 3 strength training sessions weekly. Ideally, weight training should be done on the same days as hard running workouts or the day after. However, consider reducing the weight training load during peak running training periods or tapering before a race.
For more ideas on weight lifting, including a custom weight training plan, contact our office today.