Exercises for Running Part 3

Today's exercise mimics and strengthens the runner's line which includes the backside, core, and upper back. It's called the one leg opposite dumbbell reach. To begin, stand with one leg 4-6 inches in front of the other in a comfortable stance. Hold a dumbbell in the hand on the side of the back leg. Bend your knees slightly and stand tall in your posture. Now put most of your weight on the front leg. Tilt from the hips and drop the weight forward as if reaching out to touch the ground in front of your front toe. Keep the back straight, and breathe out as you reach forward. As you rise return to the tall standing position. After you 10-12 reps, switch legs and the dumbbell to the other hand.

What this will do is help you integrate the normal muscle movements of running with the right leg forward and the left arm and the the left leg forward with the right arm.

Exercises for Running Part 2

Today's running exercise is one that works the legs and the core. It's the lunge with a twist. First start with the lunge - toes facing straight ahead. Once you're in the lunge position, the slowly twist to a 90 degree rotation. Maintain good posture throughout so you don't injure the back. If you're turning to the right, the left shoulder should end up pointing in the same direction as the feet.

The lunge with a twist actually mimics the running posture. As you run and your left foot is forward, the right arm is forward which twists the torso just slightly.

Exercises for Running

Over the next couple days I'm going to talk about exercises you can do if you're looking at doing a long run like the Bolder Boulder which takes place here in Colorado tomorrow. Of course you would want to start this long before the day before the race!!!

An exercise called the step up can help stenghten the thighs, glutes, balance and single leg strength. This is a fairly simple one. standing in front of a step, step up and then step down. Keep the chest high and toes pointed straight ahead. For a little harder work out cross your arms in front of your body as you step.

The step up provides you with the ability to strengthen those parts which as necessary for you to go up hills. Trust me, any race worth it's salt will have a hill or too for you to climb. The step up prepares you to climb those hills.