I get it. If you are a runner, and you are training for a race, strength training can seem out of the question. I'm sure you have limited time and are being asked to run "x" amount of miles a week, day, etc. So the questions arises, "should I try and fix strength-training or cross-training into the mix?" The simple answer is yes! And let me tell you why.
During my career as a professional soccer, a sport which is predominately running, I had my fair share of aches and pains. However, I always felt my best when I had strength training included in my weekly training. Why is that you may ask?
Well, let's say you are only running for your fitness. If you are only running, then you are continuing to use the same muscle groups over and over again. This overuse is what can end up causing aches, pains, and sometimes injury. Adding in some sort of strength training, or cross-training into your routine will help incorporate the other muscle groups to keep that body one healthy machine! And on top of that, "incorporating weights into your regular exercise routine has been proven to increase your speed and VO2 max" - Editors of Runner's World. You can check out that full article here - Why Strength Training is So Important For Runners.
So whether you just enjoy running, or are looking to enter into a race, be sure to add in some strength and resistance training to keep your body in peak condition and shape!
Stay Athletic,
Neil Shaffer, FutbolerFit HQ