Getting stronger

A couple of weeks ago I embarked on a strength training routine. Since then, a couple times I week I have trekked it down to my weight set to isolate specific muscle groups for some strength training. I looked up some helpful running strength workouts online and have since succeeded in dedicating a bit of time each week to completing said routine. In just the few weeks I've been working on it, my number of reps has increased (from almost nothing to almost something...) and my weight capability has also drastically improved, though it's not hard to improve from the level I was at! No matter the weak state of my muscles at the outset, though. The point is that this weight training is showing some results. It may seem counterintuitive to weight train as a runner, but the truth is that weights can really improve performance in a number of ways. First, they give power. A powerful runner can get more out of each movement and stride, resulting in faster times. One article I read said that weight training can cut over a minute off a 10k time... Seems worth it to me! Another benefit is more efficient energy conversion. This means that less oxygen will be used to create energy, making the system more efficient, making you faster, and pushing the body's capacity farther to ward off exhaustion for longer. In addition to these benefits, weight training wards off injury. I know I've said this before, but just to jog your memory (haha) resistance training strengthens muscles to take some of the stress off of joints and bones and keeps muscles strong enough to work hard. It's been shown that calf size and strength corresponds with health of an athlete; the larger the muscle, the fewer the injuries. Weights can improve bone density, muscle mass, and many other bodily functions. They even improve metabolism! One thing you may not know, though, is that weights can also make the injury less severe and the duration shorter. In all, the benefits of weight training seem well worth the slight effort it requires. Even better, I'm seeing drastic improvements in my biceps when I flex. I'm basically jacked already, and on my way to getting huge! With even more time off running, I'm focusing on getting my strength up, and I'd encourage you to do the same! No matter your situation, resistance training has a benefit for you.