Cross-training is a concept that many runners don’t properly familiarize themselves with. A great deal of runners might even believe that the only way to improve their running is to just keep running. But in truth, over-training in any form, running included, can put you at risk for injury. Daily running without rest can often restrict your body from proper recovery, which may ultimately hinder your performance.
No runner should try and fully substitute cross-training for their running, but adding different workouts as a complement to your running regiment can be important to making gains. Even other forms of cardio will qualify as cross-training – things like swimming, biking and rowing can all be hugely beneficial. Here are the very basics of cross-training, and how you can take advantage.  Continue reading “Cross-training 101”
Many runners are afraid to touch any sort of strength routine out of fear that added bulk will weigh them down and slow their race times. While few runners aspire to look like a bodybuilder, there is a comfortable medium that can help improve your running rather than detract from it. In some cases, the best training plan is a comprehensive one that allows you to combine the benefits of a few different methods. Any runner can find a place for the appropriate strength training in their routine. You may find the results are better than you expected the next time you use your 
Many runners may not realize how important protein is to their exercise endeavors. Long bouts of cardiovascular exercise, like a lengthy run on your 
Some ambitious runners find that they want to constantly ramp up their workouts by adding another challenge to their usual routine. However, even the most casual of athletes can derive many benefits from ramping things up – literally. Use the advanced features of equipment such as the 
With the recent heat wave, running outside can test even hearty endurance runners. When the temperatures start to approach the high 90s, many runners will have to truly push themselves in order to get through a run. However, while you might think of it as a challenge, trying to run in extreme heat without proper preparation can offer far more risks than it does potential benefits. There is serious danger to taking a long run in the sun, and for many, it may just be best to play things safe. There’s no shame in retiring inside to your 
The kinetic chain is a term used to describe the myriad joints and muscles used to perform a compound movement, and this reveals itself as especially important for an activity like running. Just like any other, this chain is only as strong as its weakest link, and any imbalances are not only detrimental to performance but also risk injury. This is because the body trains itself to compensate for muscular weakness over long periods of time, so you may end up dominant in some areas of your body while conversely weak in others. This is most problematic for endurance athletes. The constant stress of their activity causes these imbalances to surface, often through injury. 
Sports drinks are a significant part of workout culture today – it’s nearly impossible to go a day without seeing an ad for the best new way to hydrate and be the best athlete you can be. In reality, the ever-expanding industry brings good and bad. The advantage of having so many options is that you can continue to try different things until you find what’s best for you. Having a number of possibilities opens up the opportunity for customization to your preferences. On the other hand, the downside is that the constant influx of new products can be overwhelming. Conflicting expert opinions from every other company can lead to a great deal of confusion, especially for the less informed consumer.
Are you finding that your runs just aren’t what they used to be? Perhaps you’re getting bored with your route, your shoes are worn out or your joints are starting to ache. Whatever the reason may be, sometimes all you need are a few strength training exercises to put a spring in your step and help you run faster and farther. Well, that and a