March 31, 2007
Topic:
Running – Making Those Miles Go By Safer and Faster
Running is, without a doubt one of the most common forms of physical activity people participate in. This time of year, many people begin a running program, often for the first time, and although running is an excellent way to exercise, this high-impact workout can be stressful on a beginner’s joints and connective tissues. Here’s an excellent exercise to strengthen your muscles and connective tissue, increase bone density and help make your legs more injury resistant.
The step-up- my assistant will demonstrate- This exercise works every single muscle in the legs.
If you notice all these movements train one leg at a time. This training is needed to duplicate the sport specific movement of running. A famous Olympic running coach once said, “My sport occurs one leg at a time.” This also improves balance, and works the stabilizers in the muscle.
What other muscle groups are important for runners?
It’s a common mistake for serious runners to just work their legs. Developing strength and muscular endurance in the back is also particularly important. As runners fatigue, they could develop poor posture which hampers breathing and could lead to alignment problems in the future. Last weekend we reviewed an excellent exercise that develops muscular endurance for the back. You can go to my website for a full description if you missed it
What is the most common mistake that beginning runners make?
Most beginners don’t realize that there’s more to running than putting one foot in front of the other. The best runners know how to properly warm-up, maximize their stride, and improve their locomotion through technique. Running is a skill that you can learn. If you have a friend that has run a marathon, ask them for some tips or considers a professional running coach. My gym has an excellent one-Amber Munoz and she specializes in first timers. Her info is also on my website.
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