Rugged trails and high peaks can crumble the most dedicated runner. To trail run, you need to spend hours on the dirt, sure, but that is not enough when it comes to keeping your body healthy and stable. In the end time in the weight room equals strength on the trail.

It’s not strength training, it’s hill training, downhill practice, and endurance conditioning. Strength training is an important component of running, and it’s best if it matches the demands you experience on the trail. This is specific strength. When you spend time in the gym it should mimic the demands of your running in order to have the most benefits for your performance. Let’s go over how your muscles work while running and then how we can enhance that in the weight room.