What Kind of Strength Training is Best For Runners?

The Fleet Feet Blog is full of helpful (and sometimes tasty!) information! Check out the best strength training for runners. 

A well-designed training program can be derailed by running too many miles too soon, and a PR attempt could be quickly ruined by starting out too fast.

Runners tend to make similar mistakes when they approach strength training. We forego basic principles and progressions in favor of more Insta-worthy workouts, to our own detriment.

The constant stream of “pop culture” exercises being pushed to us through social media platforms and search engines is not only potentially ineffective, but could be downright dangerous. There is a lot of noise in the strength and conditioning space, and it’s easy to become overwhelmed and confused.

There are three main purposes behind effective strength training for runners:

• To become more durable: better able to handle increasing frequency/volume/intensity and prevent injury.
• To become more adaptable: better able to absorb the training effect of different stimuli.
• To become more skilled: better able to perform efficient and economical movement sequencing as you run.

Use these principles to take a more educated approach to your strength training and to progress as your body is ready. This will make the exercises more effective and more likely to improve your running.