Why Female Runners Should Strength Train Like Men

Suggested Strength-Training Moves for Women

strength training for runners

pictured: Battle Ropes

More: 4 Strength Exercises for Time-Strapped Runners

The rep and set schemes are built with the goal of gaining pure strength that will help increase endurance performance. Perform four to six sets of three to five reps of barbell exercises like squats, deadlifts and single-leg deadlifts. This allows you to build pure strength without building bulk.

Complete higher reps, such as four to six sets of five to 25 reps, of body-weight exercises. Ballistic exercises are often done in rounds, for example, 20 seconds to 3 minutes and up, depending on performance goals.

These workouts integrate the entire body, improve balance, and build mental toughness. 

Beginner-to-Intermediate Workout

Warm-up: Foam-roller exercises and joint-mobility drills for 10 to 15 minutes

More: Foam-Roller Exercises for Runners

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About the Author

Erik Taylor

Erik Taylor is the premiere NASM-certified trainer for runners, cyclist, triathletes and fitness enthusiasts in the South Bay area of Los Angeles. A Crossfit Level 1 instructor, corrective exercise specialist and performance enhancement specialist, Erik specializes in functional training. A former competitive cross country and track athlete, Erik understands the commitment involved in being an endurance athlete. Find him at eriktaylorsfitness.com, on Facebook, and follow him on Twitter @Eriktaylorsfit.
Erik Taylor is the premiere NASM-certified trainer for runners, cyclist, triathletes and fitness enthusiasts in the South Bay area of Los Angeles. A Crossfit Level 1 instructor, corrective exercise specialist and performance enhancement specialist, Erik specializes in functional training. A former competitive cross country and track athlete, Erik understands the commitment involved in being an endurance athlete. Find him at eriktaylorsfitness.com, on Facebook, and follow him on Twitter @Eriktaylorsfit.

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