10 Essential Strength Exercises for Runners (Part 1)

Runner’s tend to shy away from strength training which is never a good idea. The folks at Runner’s World have put together a nice little 10 exercise set that will target key areas for runners. All 10 exercises take 30 minutes to complete and can be done twice a week. Try adding them to your easy or cross-training days.

This is Part 1 of 2 or 5 of the exercises. The other 5 will be listed next Monday.

Planks – 3 to 5 Reps to work the core, lower back and shoulders.

Lower-Body Russian Twist – 10 to 12 reps, to work the core

Scorpion – As many as you want to work the shoulders and the core

Back Extensions – 10 to 12 reps to work the lower back, glutes and middle back

Kettlebell Squats With Overhead Press – 10 to 12 reps to work the glutes, quads, hamstrings, upper and lower back and shoulders