Best practices for runners’ strength training
At Techniqure, we understand that runners often focus primarily on logging miles, sometimes overlooking the crucial role that strength training plays in enhancing performance and preventing injuries. Integrating a well-rounded strength training regimen into your running routine can lead to significant improvements in speed, endurance, and overall running economy. Here we give some of our top tips on how you can optimise your strength training to become a stronger, faster, and more resilient runner.
If you would like to ask our physios at our Central London clinics any questions or book in an appointment, don’t hesitate to get in touch at info@techniquehealth.org or 0333 358 3534.
1. Why Strength Training Matters for Runners
Injury Prevention: Strengthening muscles, tendons, and ligaments reduces the risk of common running injuries such as shin splints, IT band syndrome, and runner’s knee.
Improved Performance: Enhanced muscle strength leads to better running efficiency, allowing you to run faster and longer with less effort.
Balanced Muscle Development: Running primarily targets lower body muscles. Strength training helps develop upper body and core strength, contributing to better posture and overall stability.
2. Key Areas to Focus On
Core Strength: A strong core stabilizes your torso, reduces wobbling, and improves running form.
Leg Strength: Building strength in your glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves powers your strides and increases speed.
Upper Body Strength: A strong upper body supports efficient arm swing and helps maintain good posture during long runs.
3. Effective Strength Training Exercises for Runners
Core Exercises:
Planks: Hold a plank position for 30-60 seconds, ensuring a straight line from head to heels.
Russian Twists: Sit with knees bent, lean back slightly, and twist your torso side to side, holding a weight or medicine ball.
Leg Raises: Lie flat, lift your legs towards the ceiling, then lower them slowly without touching the ground.
Lower Body Exercises:
Squats: Perform bodyweight or weighted squats to strengthen quads, glutes, and hamstrings.
Lunges: Forward, reverse, and lateral lunges target different muscle groups in your legs.
Deadlifts: Use a barbell or dumbbells to perform deadlifts, focusing on proper form to strengthen hamstrings and glutes.
Calf Raises: Stand on the edge of a step, raise your heels, and slowly lower them to strengthen your calves.
Upper Body Exercises:
Push-Ups: Enhance upper body strength and core stability.
Rows: Use resistance bands or dumbbells to perform bent-over rows, targeting your back and shoulders.
Shoulder Press: Lift dumbbells overhead, keeping your core engaged and spine neutral.
4. Integrating Strength Training into Your Routine
Frequency: Aim for 2-3 strength training sessions per week, focusing on different muscle groups to allow for adequate recovery.
Duration: Keep sessions to 30-45 minutes, balancing intensity and volume.
Warm-Up: Always begin with a dynamic warm-up to prepare your muscles and reduce injury risk. Include exercises like leg swings, high knees, and arm circles.
Progression: Gradually increase the weight and complexity of exercises as your strength improves. This progressive overload is key to continued gains.
5. Balancing Running and Strength Training
Schedule: Plan your strength training on easy run days or as standalone sessions to avoid overloading your muscles.
Recovery: Allow sufficient recovery time between intense running and strength sessions. Listen to your body and adjust as needed.
Periodization: Align your strength training with your running schedule. Focus on building strength during the off-season or base-building phase, and switch to maintenance mode during peak race season.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Neglecting Form: Proper form is crucial to prevent injuries. If unsure, seek guidance from a physiotherapist or certified trainer.
Overtraining: Avoid excessive strength training that can lead to fatigue and increased injury risk. Balance is key.
Ignoring Flexibility: Incorporate stretching and mobility work to maintain flexibility and complement your strength training efforts.
7. Expert Tips from Technique Health & Fitness
Personalized Programs: Work with our physiotherapists to create a tailored strength training plan that fits your running goals and addresses any imbalances or weaknesses.
Regular Assessments: Schedule periodic assessments to track progress, adjust your training plan, and address any emerging issues.
Holistic Approach: Combine strength training with other recovery techniques such as massage therapy, foam rolling, and proper nutrition for optimal results.
By incorporating these best practices into your routine, you’ll not only enhance your running performance but also reduce the risk of injuries, ensuring you can enjoy your runs for years to come. At Technique, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve your fitness goals with comprehensive, science-based strategies.
If you have any questions or need personalised guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of experts. Happy running!
Head to our booking page to schedule a consultation with us.
If you would like to find out more about how osteopathy can help you, get in touch with us at info@techniquehealth.org / call 0333 358 3534.
