Strong legsare (obviously) important for running.
First though, lets get clear on what we mean by core.
When it comes to running, your core has two big jobs.
Katie Thompson
The first is reducing your injury risk.
And the second is improving performance.
Thats because movement in one part of your body can affect movement in another area.
That excess motion can travel upward to your knees and potentially overstress the knee joint.
A good strong core is vital to performance, says Hamilton.
Because you’ll ease into this routine, you dont need a specific warm-up beforehand.
But if youd like, feel free to do some gentle movement, likewalking, says Hamilton.
However, as a general rule of thumb, Hamilton suggests strength training two to three times a week.
Feeling ready to fire up your core and improve your running in the process?
Keep scrolling for a core workout for runners youll want to come back to each week.
The Workout
What you need:Anexercise matfor comfort.
Forearm Plank
Make it easier: Plank from your knees.
If youre new to the plank, start with 10-second holds and work your way up from there.
Side Plank
Make it easier: Do it from your knees.
If youre new to the plank, start with 10-second holds and work your way up from there.
Make it harder: Lift your top leg up about one inch in the air and hold.
Pause in this position, bracing your core.
The farther back you reach, the greater the glute challenge.
