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goldbeetle
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Has an anybody any thoughts,comments or experiences on weight training and any possible benefits or problems for runners? My neighbour is a bodybuilder he says some of his routines would be usefull for my running no matter what the distance my fear is recovery and getting in the needed mileage each week without overtraining.Your thoughts please
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Comments
Give it a go and find what works for you.
But if its a choice between a run or weight session - I think the run would be more beneficial.
Surely you don't have to do that many exercise for a running circuit? perhaps just 4? so you won't be over training
I've also heard that certain leg exercises - eg, leg extensions - are both beneficial for runners, and help to reduce the risk of injury by strengthening leg muscles.
Leg extensions (especially if using a fixed weight machine) can place knee ligaments under un-natural strain.Squats and the leg press are certainly more appropiate exercises for the leg muscles.
In my opinion all runners should be doing some form of strength training, especially during the winter months.
Well that's what works for me
I do leg exercises too, varying between using added weight and low reps. to only my body weight and hi reps. With respect to hurting your joints, it is all down to 'form'- chosing the right weight (one you can just about manage slowly without straining or using other muscles), doing the exercise v. slowly and making sure you are working WITHIN the joint's range of motion.
If you follow this, then you can only strengthen your running.
And make sure you stretch well afterwards too-
On the leg extension front I was told specifically not to use them by my physio as they stretch the ligaments and may actually make you more prone to cruciate injury.
BTW- have heard different tales from different physios r.e. leg extensions- e.g. one told me they were v.v. good for strengthening the knee, if done correctly...
Its true on the extension front - it does depend on who you talk to. Most of my rugby pals advise staying clear of fixed weights and using free weights - much better for developing the smaller muscles you need for balance and stuff...but I always feel a bit uncomfortable using them in the gym!
plus I was always really rubbish at them. Despite all my best efforts I have the weakest arms in the world!
I do go to powerpump every once in a while which is good fun.
Keep up the good work!