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When it comes to working out, mostrunnersare happy just lacing up their shoes and hitting the pavement.
Katie Thompson
But slotting in a glute workout for runners alongside your regular mileage can pay big dividends.
So get ready to add in some newbutt exercises!
Before we get into why strong glutes matter, heres a quick anatomy refresher.
As for why butt strength matters in running?
Your glutes basically form the seat of your power as a runner, says Hamilton.
That means the stronger your glutes are, the more powerful your stride.
(Here are somegreat mini-band choicesif youre not sure which to choose!)
(you could also considerthese five pre-workout stretchesdesigned to warm you up for any routine.)
Feeling ready to fire up your glutes and become a stronger, more resilient runner?
The Workout
What you need:An exercisematfor comfort and a mini-band.
Pick a band with enough resistance that completing the prescribed reps below with proper form feels challenging but doable.
Squat
This functional movement works your glutes as well as your quads,hamstrings, and calves.
Its great before a run as a warm-up, says Hamilton.
Make it harder by holding dumbbells or looping a resistance band around your thighs.
Make it easier by removing the band and doing the move with just your bodyweight.
Make it harder by using a stronger band.
Glute Bridge
This move is great for isolating your glutes.
Make it harder by doing single-leg glute bridges (see exercise #4here.)
Or place a mini-band around your thighs.
Make it easier by removing the band and performing reps with just your bodyweight.
Make it harder by using a stronger band.
