Last month, we shared a basic checklist for getting “Ready to Run”. This week, we’re diving a bit more into the strength side of this equation, with some thoughts on how to prioritize exercise selection for runners.

You may remember from our last post, runners need to be mobile at the ankles, knees, hips, and spine, as well as strong and powerful (especially through the lower body). When planning strength work for a runner, we want to prioritize:

• Jumping and landing mechanics
• Single leg strength
• Powerful hip extension
• Squat mechanics
• Core control
• Strong base of support (your feet!)

Here are some of our favourite ways to incorporate those priorities into a beginner strength program:

Pick a few of these at a time to try out in your strength training routine, and see how you feel!