Whether you're new to running or you've been running for years, you can benefit from strength-training. Some runners are hesitant to strength-train because they think it will make them bulky and slower. But strength-training is extremely beneficial for runners. Here are several reasons why:
You'll be a more efficient runner.
If you've ever had a long run or race when your form fell apart as you get fatigued towards the end, you'll definitely benefit from strength-training. Strengthening your core can help improve and maintain your running form, which translates into greater running efficiency.You'll burn more calories.
Adding more muscle will increase your metabolism, which means you'll burn more calories at rest and during workouts.More: Ways to Boost Your Metabolism
You'll increase your endurance and reduce fatigue.
Strength training helps your body better deal with the stresses of running. Your muscles will be able to perform longer before getting fatigued, which will help you maintain your proper running form.You'll reduce your risk of injuries.
Leg exercises are particularly important when it comes to reducing injury. They can strengthen the muscles that support and stabilize the knees and hips, two injury-prone areas for runners.More: How to Prevent Running Injuries
You'll run faster.
Improving your form and endurance also translates into faster overall pace, so strength training is an excellent way to get faster. Runners usually see improvements in their race times fairly soon after they add strength training to their regimens. All it takes is two or three 15- to 20-minute strength-training sessions a week to build more muscle mass.More: How to Run Faster
Running will feel easier.
New runners frequently ask, "When will it start to feel easier?" The answer is different for everyone, but adding strength training to your routine can definiely speed up the process. Strengthening your leg muscles will help increase your endurance, meaning you can run longer without feeling fatigued.More: When Does Running Get Easier?
