Runner’s Strength Training Round Up: Favorites

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As a runner, I know that it is important to get strength training in. But it is one thing to know and another thing to do. I will be honest, as much as I know that I need to have strength training and cross training to make me the best version of my runner self; I often times have a hard time convincing myself to actually ‘just do it.’ (<to borrow Nike’s famous phrase.)

However, countless times, I’ve learned that as I cross train and strength train, not only am I less injury prone, but I am also leaner, stronger, and a more efficient runner overall. And that’s a win, win right?

I thought it would be fun to share a break-down of some of my absolute, favorite fall back videos and workouts that I love using as strength training in this marathon training cycle.

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Arms

As a runner, it really isn’t necessary to carry around massive arms, but I (personally) want to balance

This video. It is only 5 minutes, but trust me – it is 5 minutes of pure torture.

I also love this upper body workout by Fitness Blenders on Youtube. It’s 10 minutes of push-ups and trust me, you will feel the burn!

Core/Abs

Having a strong core, as a runner, is so important! I absolutely love Pilates and Pilates is all about core strength. One of the things I love with Pilates is that this form of exercise has little to no impact whatsoever. After tons of impact through running, little impact with Pilates is a welcome break!

A few of my favorites can be found here, here, and here. 

Glutes

Another favorite thing to strengthen for runners is their GLUTES. Strong glutes = happy runners. Basically having strong glute muscles make running easier, which is a win in my book.

My all time favorite video is this one, here. Fair warning guys: it is a KILLER. Let me know what you think.

Legs

Obviously, legs are important for runners! Having strong legs not only helps you run your best, but also helps protect against injuries! Julie, from Peanut Butter Fingers, creates some of my all time favorite leg workouts. Not only are they time efficient, but they are super effective and always leave me feeling the burn!

You can find my favorites: here, here, and here.

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Hope you guys enjoy this workouts as much as I do! Let me know which one you try!

Quesitons of teh Day 

  1. What is your favorite area of your body to workout?
  2. What is the leas favorite part of your body to workout?
  3. Do you like to do strength training?