Why Running Isn’t Enough? If you’re training for a race or have just decided to take up running in efforts to shed unwanted pounds, don’t underestimate the need for strength training. Strength is a supplement to a runner’s roadwork because it strengthens muscles and joints, which can improve race times and decrease the risk of injury.
In order to achieve full potential with your running program, make sure you pay attention to flexibility, balance, mobility, and strength. Studies show that strength training can improve body composition by helping you maintain or increase your lean body mass and can decrease your percentage of body fat, helping you look leaner and burn additional calories.
Studies show that by integrating other activities such as Pilates, yoga, cycling, cross-training and swimming will strengthen weak muscles and reform your running. Studies also show that regular strength training can improve running economy, which is how efficiently the body uses oxygen by as much as 8%, which in turn means greater speed and more muscle endurance.
So, switch it up – it does a running body good.
