Is strength training important for runners

In the Dustland, your speed and endurance in running is non-negotiable for survival. Most of our Dustcaps are chosen based on their speed, it drastically increases your chance of survival on a mission. But did you know that there’s more than a fair share of Dustcaps who were chosen and trained based on their strength?  Let’s explore an interesting question. Is strength training important for runners?

Strength to overcome injuries

Injuries are sometimes like a rite of passage for Dustcaps. Ideally, it shouldn’t be like that, strength training helps to try and turn that into reality.

• Injury prevention: With strength training, you’ll build muscular strength and stability. This will do wonders on reducing the risk of injuries like knee pain, shin splints and stress fractures.
• Bone health: Running can sometimes be stressful for certain bones. Weight-bearing and resistance exercises can contribute to bone density and overall skeletal health. No more skeletons in your closet, Dustcap.
• Rehabilitation and recovery: If you’re an exercise maniac like Eric, targeted strength exercises can aid in your recovery process from an injury and hopefully even expedite the healing process.

Improved running strength

Speed and strength are like two peas in a pod. You can get either one of them but getting both far outweighs the benefits of focusing on just one of them, here’s why:

• Weight loss: A lot of new, up and coming Dustcaps have a goal of losing weight as a part of their training. Running certainly helps but did you know strength training also does? With strength training, we don’t only lose fat but also gain some muscle, especially with resistance training.
• Balanced muscle development: Running, especially if you’re a Dustcap who runs A LOT will probably lead to muscle imbalances. Some muscles will become overused, and others will be underutilized. Strength training can help balance your muscle development and reduce compensatory movements which can lead to injuries.
• Core strength: During initiation, you’ve been told multiple times that running form is what separates regular Dustcaps and the great ones. Core strength will help you with that. Strong cores will prevent excessive side-to-side movement and reduce the risk of injuries during missions.

Increase in running performance

Last but not least, strength training will bring your running performance up a notch. As a Dustcap, you need to be resourceful. By doing strength training you’ll be able utilize your energy more efficiently. Among other things are:

• Improved running economy: No, we’re not talking about the literal economy. That’s been long gone since the solar flare that brought up the apocalypse. Back to what I’ve said before, you’ll be able to use your energy more efficiently and not waste it as much.
• Enhanced power and speed: Your legs need to build muscle to get better at running. With enhanced power from strength training, you’ll be able to sprint, hill climb and maintain your pace with a breeze.
• Muscular endurance: When you’re running, not only cardiovascular fitness matters but also muscle endurance. This’ll go a long way to bring you up from being a regular runner, to a strong Dustcap!