Strength Training For Runners

Strength training for runners is both necessary and important for a well rounded workout routine. Most runners will shy away from strength training thinking it might make them bulky and perhaps slower, but incorporating a strength training routine into your weekly workouts is good for you.

Here are some reasons to enjoy strength training for runners:

Burn Calories

One of the key things about strength training is that it builds muscle which means you'll burn more calories. Increasing muscle will increase your metabolism.

Keep in mind, that after the age of 30 adults lose one to five percent of muscle mass over a ten year period. Keeping the muscle strength you have is critical because it also builds bone density which we continue to lose as we age. Of course, too, shapely muscles look great!

You'll Run Better

Strengthening your cores muscles will allow you to maintain better form over the long haul. If you're participating in a 5k, 10k or marathon, your form will suffer as you become fatigued. By building your muscles you'll last longer and enjoy a better performance.

Improve Endurance

We all want to improve endurance so that we can last longer during workouts and during races. By having stronger muscles you'll naturally improve your endurance, maintain your form longer and your body will handle the rigors of running better.

Minimize Injuries

Protect your hips and legs with strength training exercises as these areas are highly prone to injury. If you've got muscle to work with your tendons, ligaments and joints will fare better as your muscles will be better able to support and stabilize these areas.

Conclusion

You don't have to use weights to increase your strength. Resistance bands do an excellent job and they provide quite a workout. They're lightweight, easy to use and keep continuous strain on the muscle as you use them making for a more efficient workout.

I find the SWAT Workout: Rapid Tone and Firm DVD to be an easy workout to follow yet very challenging. You'll definitely break a sweat! The instructor does a great job of keeping the workout interesting, too.

I also like and use Gaiam Covered Resistance Cord Kit that comes with a strength training DVD. This is another terrific resistance band workout that can be a great way to change up your routine.

You're not going to get big muscles with resistance bands but you will enjoy the benefits of building lean muscle mass, a more shapely physique and better running performance.

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