Why is it hard going up stairs even though i run cross country?

Question

Even though i run cross country, i find it difficult going up stairs? is it beacuse running works diffrent muscles?

I know alot of people who can attest to this..

Answer 1

I know many who can attest to this as well, me included!

Running works many muscles in your legs.  However, you don't work your quads altogether that much.  When climbing stairs, the main muscle group used is the quads.  Thus, even though you run, your quads are not incredibly strong, and you feel fatigued on the stairs

~Abab

Answer 2

ya distance running doesn't really strengthen your legs it just makes them run fast for a long period of time. Walking up stairs uses stregnth in your legs which doesn't really get developed in XC. This is the reason power lifters who can squat like 1000 lbs can't run distance becasue they have the wrong type of muscle.

Answer 3

LOL.  Yes, you can be in great shape and still feel the burn when hiking or climbing stairs.

Different muscles groups, with a more focused explosive motion.  You pull in your quads and glutes more than you would when running.