Weight Lifting For Runner!??!10 Points Help!!?

Question

I am currently lifting weights on upper body but not lower body. i want to lift weights on lower body.would this make me slower?i am a long distance runner who runs 4+ miles everyday.

should i lift weights for my legs?

Answer 1

yes, do lower body. at my coaches old school, they did an experiment with weightlifting, they had some people do some box squats and bench, and their standing long jump improved by like 6 inches from before they lifted. we lifted 3 times a week, between meets this year, and it has improved my stamina (i run the 800 and 1600) and it has also improved my sprinting at the end of the race.

Answer 2

Most definitely,  lifting weights with your legs if your a runner is a big advantage.  You can get away with no doing your upper body (wouldn't suggest this), but you need to lift with your lower body for sure.  Your calves are very important while running so therefore doing calf exercises will make them much stronger when racing. Just be careful and don't over do the weight when lifting with your hamstrings.  If they get really big you tend to possibly pull them if its cold and you don't warm up properly.  I've been competitive runner for over 13yrs. and (knock on wood) haven't had any major issues with my legs b/c I work them out at least 2 a week!!

Answer 3

If you are trying to get stronger.Yes..if you are trying to get faster.No