How does performing chest/arms/back lifts benefit me as a distance runner?
How does performing chest/arms/back lifts benefit me as a distance runner?
A lot of runners will say upper body strength doesnt matter but that is because they are too lazy and weak to work out.
Functional upper body strength will strengthen your frame, line up your spine properly and will help you drive your body forward with less effort, this using less oxygen.
Yes, as Percy Cerutty said, "Runners don't run with their legs, they run ON their legs. In reality, they run with their Arms!"The better control you have with your upper body the better form you'll have on your legs. It is all connected. And, it does not take much. Just some chin ups,and dips 2-3 times a week for a couple sets is all you really need.
Two reasons.
One, what everyone listed already. It's helps you run strong and keep good posture as runs get faster/longer/etc.
Two, you might want to do things in life other than run all the time. Being strong all over makes everything easier.
Are the stomach muscles and abs important too?
I do back and compound lifts 3 times a week. Back for posture, compound for core and leg strength (deadlifts with a hex bar, squats, pull-ups)
Swole Patrol wrote:
How does performing chest/arms/back lifts benefit me as a distance runner?
It might not make a HUGE improvement in distance running but you'll get the same benefits non-distance runners get - you'll be a lot stronger. You don't have to gain a lot of weight, getting a lot stronger with say an extra 1-2 lb of muscle I'd think would be a huge win. I'd say do it if you have the extra time.
you'll have better general strength and won't look like a lil b*tch
yes it does wrote:
Yes, as Percy Cerutty said, "Runners don't run with their legs, they run ON their legs. In reality, they run with their Arms!"The better control you have with your upper body the better form you'll have on your legs. It is all connected. And, it does not take much. Just some chin ups,and dips 2-3 times a week for a couple sets is all you really need.
Percy and most of his runners did not look like Arnold Schwartzenegger.