How come running hills makes you faster?

Question

I mean, every time I ask how to get faster, hills always come up. I mean, what does it do. If it just makes your legs stronger, then can't I just use weights for my legs?

Answer 1

The person above got it.  Give 'em the best answer.

It's essentially the same as going up and down stairs.

Answer 2

It also helps with form by training you to lift your knees.

Answer 3

strenghen your legs,builds more muscle gives you more indurance.

Answer 4

I'm a runner too and I know it helps a lot b/c it gives you endurance and is a lot harder than straight aways so when you run on a flat surface it seems like a piece of cake in comparison. Weights for your legs would help too, but its the same concept as you'll run faster if you practice outside rather than on a tredmill.

Answer 5

its simple,the reason is since your running uphill your using more of your leg muscle then in flat land so its basically like working out you do something else that gets you stronger in another & the reason your faster is it helps your legs push more so when your running uphill your going slow:thats the workout,&then once your on flat land and running its simple for your legs to move @ a faster pace.=)

Answer 6

When you run uphill you run slower and harder, so therefore when you run flat you will run faster and easier.

Answer 7

Going up the hill makes your legs stronger and going down will train you to pace yourself.

Answer 8

weights don't copy the motion you use when running.

Answer 9

It builds more muscles in your legs of course! :P