Should a runner lift weights?

Question

I'm a runner and I want to know if I should lift weights too. If yes, how does it help me? If not why not?

Answer 1

Lifting weights is very important to help you run faster. The fastest runners have the most muscle support force at ground contact resulting in shorter contact times and longer strides. To get stronger, try leg presses where you lift a weight with both legs but hold with one leg, on ball of foot and knee slightly bent. Hold as much weight as possible for 10-20 seconds. Do 3-6 holds/reps a few times a week. The increased strength will help speed and endurance since the reason runners slow down is because their muscles get tired.  

Answer 2

Lifting weights has been part of my endurance training and I have seen the benefits including being less fatigued, stronger, resistance against injuries, better overall time.

Answer 3

Lifting weights will help with running. Towards the end of a long race your upper body will begin to get tired. When this happens you will bend down and put more pressure on your back.

Answer 4

yes. you can lift to gain strength in the off season and when the season starts you can lift differently to increase your endurance

Answer 5

yea its very good to lift weights.

a stronger runner is a faster runner!

you should focus on having a strong core (abs) because that is where you get a lot of balance and correct form from

try this ab routine!

First is the leg lowerings: what you do is you lay flat in your back and raise your legs with your toes pointed up then you lower your legs for ten seconds (that is one) You should do 20 of them.

2nd is the Russian Twists: You put your body in a V position (this is your lower back on the floor with you torso and legs totally raised..till you look like a V) next you swing your body from side to side as far as possible. It helps to say left-right-center as you swing your body. (20 times)

3rd is the sprinters sit-ups: you go back to the V position and you kick out you right leg and left arm them switch to left leg right arm (that is one) you have to do this 20 times aswell

4th is the toe touches: this is simple you lay down on your back and raise your legs (first part) You stay in this position. Now try to reach your toes. (20 times)

One set is all of these 20 reps in a row

for best results do 4 sets