The Couch to 5K Treadmill Plan You Need

So, you’re ready to tackle the Couch to 5K, but the thought of running outside right now isn’t appealing?

Trust me, I’ve been there!

Sometimes the weather or the idea of dodging cars and people makes running outside feel like a chore.

Enter the treadmill—your new best friend for getting started on your running journey.

Without further ado, let me break down what the couch to 5K treadmill plan is all about.

Why the Treadmill Works for C25K

While the traditional C25K plan usually takes place outdoors, there are many reasons to consider running indoors.

Training on a treadmill has advantages from avoiding bad weather to easily tracking your pace and progress. This beginner running treadmill plan lets you ease into running while offering the convenience and control of indoor workouts.

I trained exclusively on a treadmill to build my endurance when I started running.

The consistent surface, ease of pace control, and the ability to track all my stats in one place were game-changers for me.

I didn’t have to worry about outdoor conditions, which gave me the mental space to focus on improving my fitness.

Is Couch to 5K Possible on a Treadmill?

Absolutely! Running on a treadmill can be just as effective as outdoor running.

It can sometimes be more convenient, especially when weather or terrain challenges make it tough to run outside.

The treadmill offers a soft, cushioned surface, which is easier on your joints than pounding the pavement. Plus, you can easily adjust your pace and incline, simulating the ups and downs of an outdoor course without leaving your house or gym.

You can also check my original C25K plan.

Beginner Treadmill Running Tips

Here are some important tips to keep in mind as you get started with your Couch to 5K treadmill plan:

  1. Choose the Right Shoes: Make sure your running shoes have good cushioning and support for treadmill running. Treadmills may be easier on the joints, but you’ll still need footwear that’s up for the challenge.
  2. Set a Comfortable Pace: Aim for a conversational pace where you can still speak without getting winded. For beginners, this might be around 6-8 km/h (3.7-5 mph) for running, and 3.5-4.5 km/h (2.2-2.8 mph) for walking. Don’t worry if it feels slow initially—focus on building endurance.
  3. Watch Your Form: Keep your posture upright and avoid slouching over the treadmill console. Look ahead, not down at your feet, and maintain a relaxed, steady stride.
  4. Start Slow, Build Gradually: The Couch to 5K is about easing into running. Don’t push yourself too hard—stick to the plan, listen to your body, and take walking breaks as needed.

The Couch to 5K Treadmill Plan: Week-by-Week Breakdown

This eight-week C25K treadmill plan is designed to take you from zero running experience to completing a 5K (3.1 miles).

You can also check this beginner post and my C10K program for more running advice.

The beginner running treadmill program involves three sessions per week. On your non-running days, feel free to work your muscles in other ways by doing different forms of exercise, such as strength trainingspinning, or yoga.

The more, the merrier. However, always listen to your body, adjust your training, and plan as needed to allow  recovery.

Personal Tip: Watch Out for the “Dreadmill”

I’m not going to sugarcoat it—the treadmill can get boring. That’s why I call it the “dreadmill” sometimes. But you can fight the boredom with a few tricks. I’ve had some of my best treadmill runs while watching old “How I Met Your Mother” episodes or listening to podcasts like “The Joe Rogan Experience.” Distracting your mind helps, trust me.

Week 1: Building the Habit

  • Workout 1: Run 1 minute, walk 2 minutes. Repeat 8 times.
  • Workout 2: Run 1 minute, walk 2 minutes. Repeat 10 times.
  • Workout 3: Run 1 minute, walk 1 minute. Repeat 8 times.

Week 2: Gaining Confidence

  • Workout 1: Run 2 minutes, walk 2 minutes. Repeat 5 times.
  • Workout 2: Run 2 minutes, walk 2 minutes. Repeat 7 times.
  • Workout 3: Run 3 minutes, walk 2 minutes. Repeat 4 times.

Week 3: Pushing Forward

  • Workout 1: Run 3 minutes, walk 2 minutes. Repeat 5 times.
  • Workout 2: Run 3 minutes, walk 1 minute. Repeat 5 times.
  • Workout 3: Run 2 minutes, walk 2 minutes. Repeat 5 times.

Week 4: Longer Runs, Fewer Breaks

  • Workout 1: Run 5 minutes, walk 3 minutes. Repeat 3 times.
  • Workout 2: Run 5 minutes, walk 2 minutes. Repeat 3 times.
  • Workout 3: Run 5 minutes, walk 2 minutes. Repeat 4 times.

Week 5: The Next Challenge

  • Workout 1: Run 8 minutes, walk 3 minutes. Repeat 2 times.
  • Workout 2: Run 8 minutes, walk 2 minutes. Repeat 2 times.
  • Workout 3: Run 6 minutes, walk 2 minutes. Repeat 3 times.

Week 6: Pushing Through

  • Workout 1: Run 10 minutes, walk 3 minutes. Repeat 2 times.
  • Workout 2: Run 10 minutes, walk 2 minutes. Repeat 2 times.
  • Workout 3: Run 12 minutes, walk 2 minutes. Repeat 2 times.

Week 7: Almost There

  • Workout 1: Run 12 minutes, walk 3 minutes. Repeat 3 times.
  • Workout 2: Run 12 minutes, walk 2 minutes. Repeat 2 times.
  • Workout 3: Run 15 minutes, walk 2 minutes. Repeat 2 times.

Week 8: Race Week

  • Workout 1: Run 20 minutes, walk 5 minutes, run 10 minutes.
  • Workout 2: Run 20 minutes, walk 5 minutes, run 15 minutes.
  • Workout 3: Run a 5K distance at a comfortable pace.

By the end of this eight-week plan, you’ll be ready to run a full 5K! Once you’ve completed the program, I recommend transitioning to outdoor running to mix up your routine.

Running outside is a different experience, and adjusting can take a little time. But with your treadmill training base, you’ll be ready for the challenge!

Want more challenge? Try my 8K training plan.

In Conclusion: Stick With It

If you follow this sofa to 5K treadmill plan consistently, you’ll be amazed at how far you can go in just eight weeks. Start slow, trust the process, and keep moving forward—even on the tough days. And remember, every runner starts somewhere. You’ve got this!

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need some motivation along the way. I’m here to help you make the most of your running journey, whether on the treadmill or outdoors.

Keep Training Strong, David D

Does Running Help you Last Longer In Bed?

picture of sex

I hate to state the obvious but running is a fantastic way to reduce stress, boost your memory, improve cardiovascular health, and help you live a longer, healthier life.

But did you know that running can also give your sex life a serious boost?

Yes, that’s right—running can improve your sexual performance and satisfaction in ways you may not have expected!

So, how exactly does pounding the pavement spice up your intimate life? Let’s unpack this

Feel-Good Chemicals That Boost Your Libido

Let’s be real—how you feel about your body can have a huge impact on your sex life. Running helps you get fit, and as you improve your body, you naturally start feeling more confident about your appearance. Whether feeling proud of your progress or appreciating what your body can achieve, running builds confidence, making you more comfortable and expressive in bed.

Research from the University of Arkansas found that physically fit individuals rated their sexual desirability higher than those who were less active. It’s simple—when you feel good about your body, you’re more likely to feel confident about being intimate. In a Runner’s World survey, 90% of respondents said running gave them more body confidence in the bedroom. So, if you’re looking for a self-esteem boost, lace up your shoes and hit the pavement!

Improved Confidence

Here’s a fun fact: running can actually improve your stamina in bed!

A study published in the American Journal of Cardiology found that increased running endurance correlated with increased sexual endurance. Every extra minute you can run on a treadmill might translate into an additional two to three minutes of sexual activity. So, the fitter you are, the longer you might last in bed.

Trust me, improving your running stamina can boost your endurance everywhere—even in bed. And trust me, your partner will notice this, too.

Your Orgasms Get More Intense

Looking for more intense climaxes? Running could be your answer.

Research from Finland that examined over 5,500 women in their 40s and 50s found a positive link between regular aerobic exercise and improved sexual satisfaction, including more intense orgasms.

Another study conducted at the Center for Marital and Sexual Studies found that individuals who exercise regularly are not only more likely to orgasm but also experience orgasms more easily and frequently.

So, hitting the trails can do more than just improve your fitness—it can enhance your sexual experience, too.

Your Orgasms Get More Numbered

It’s not just about quality—running can also improve the quantity of your orgasms. A study from the University of California found that participants who engaged in moderate exercise four times a week had 30% more sex and experienced 25% more orgasms after following their fitness routine for nine months.

For men, running can lead to higher testosterone levels, which not only boosts sex drive but also combats hypogonadism, a condition that reduces the production of sex hormones. This condition often leads to sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction. In short, running can help you feel more energized, active, and ready for intimacy.

Running Makes You More Fertile

Running doesn’t just improve your sex life—it can also enhance your fertility. Being overweight or inactive can negatively impact fertility, but regular running can help you maintain a healthy weight and boost fertility in both men and women.

I’m not at the stage of life where I’m thinking about kids yet, but I’ve read about how running can impact fertility. There’s plenty of research showing that staying active can improve sperm quality and boost fertility in both men and women.

For men, studies have shown that running at least three hours a week lowers the risk of impotence by 30%. For women, regular exercise reduces the risk of infertility due to ovulation disorders, according to research published in Obstetrics & Gynecology.

So, if you’re planning to start a family, running can help boost your chances of conception.

Doing It Too Much

As great as running is for your sex life, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing.

In fact, too many miles each week—logging 60+ miles a week—you might reduce your sex drive.

Again, don’t take my word for it.

A study from the University of Connecticut found that male runners who clocked serious miles saw a 30% drop in testosterone levels and a decline in semen quality.

Why? Running too much can lead to a significant reduction in body fat, which affects hormone levels.

Tight clothing (like compression shorts) can also harm sperm quality by creating too much heat in the reproductive area. Balance is key—running in moderation will help boost your sex life, but overdoing it could have the opposite effect.

Actionable Tips for Balancing Running and Sexual Health

To get the most out of your running routine—both for performance and personal life—consider these simple tips:

1. Aim for a Balanced Weekly Mileage. For most runners, keeping your weekly mileage between 15-25 miles is a sweet spot. This range supports cardiovascular and hormonal health without the fatigue that can come with higher mileage. If you’re training for a race and need to up your distance, remember to increase mileage gradually and allow for recovery.

2. Incorporate Rest Days. Rest is as important as your training days. Including at least one or two rest days each week can help prevent overtraining and give your body a chance to recover, which is essential for maintaining healthy hormone levels. Rest days don’t mean inactivity—try light stretching or yoga to stay loose and relaxed.

3. Listen to Your Body. Fatigue and soreness can be signs that your body needs a break. If you’re feeling extra tired, or your libido is lower than usual, consider adjusting your workouts. Balancing intensity and rest is key to keeping both your physical and personal life thriving.

4. Add Strength Training. Adding strength sessions 1-2 times a week can enhance your running performance and support your overall health. Stronger muscles aid in better endurance, reducing fatigue and leaving you with more energy outside of running.

5. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well. Proper hydration and balanced nutrition go a long way toward overall wellness and energy. Drinking enough water and fueling with nutrient-rich foods ensures your body has what it needs to support both your running goals and a healthy libido.

The Conclusion

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from years of running, the benefits extend beyond the physical.

Sure, it makes you fitter, but the boost it gives to your mental and emotional well-being is just as important. And yes, that includes your sex life.

So if you’re wondering whether running can help you last longer in bed, take it from me—it absolutely can.

Feel free to leave any comments or questions below. In the meantime, keep running strong!

Plantar Fasciitis Unveiled: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention for Runners

How to Prevent Plantar Fasciitis When running

Ready to lace up those sneakers and hit the pavement? Well, hold on tight because today, we’re diving headfirst into the world of plantar fasciitis – that pesky, heel-aching injury that can strike fear into the hearts of runners everywhere.

In fact, it’s so notorious in the running community that it’s earned itself a nickname: ‘Runners Heel.’ Yes, that’s right! Plantar fasciitis is the heel’s arch-nemesis, and it’s responsible for a whopping 80% of all those dreaded cases of heel pain.

But here’s the kicker – it’s not just a pain in the heel; it’s also one of the top culprits behind about 1 in every ten running injuries out there.

Fret no more.

In today’s post, we’re diving deep into this condition. More specifically, I’ll be explaining:

  • What is plantar fascia
  • The causes of the injury
  • Why it’s common among runners
  • The fastest way to treat it
  • How stretching helps
  • The link between running surfaces and heel pain
  • Exercises you can do to prevent heel pain
  • And so much more

Sounds exciting? Let’s get started.

What’s the Plantar Fascia?

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain that affects both runners and non-runners. The human body is equipped with this fibrous band of tissue called the plantar fascia. It’s like the support beam of your foot, stretching from your heel (the calcaneum) to the middle of your foot bones, bridging the gap between your heel bone and your toes.

Now, when that support beam gets all irritated and inflamed, that’s plantar fasciitis for you. It’s like your foot’s way of saying, “Hey, I hurt!”

It’s especially common in runners

Plantar Fasciitis is no stranger to runners.

In fact, it’s one of the most frequently reported causes of chronic heel pain. A study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research vouches for this.

And in the realm of running, Plantar Fasciitis is quite the troublemaker. It’s responsible for approximately 8 percent of all running injuries, as revealed by a retrospective study analyzing 2000 running-related injuries.

The Process of The Injury

Plantar Fasciitis kicks off when the delicate fibers of the fascia, that fibrous band of tissue running from your heel to your toes, start to accumulate tiny tears.

It’s like your foot’s way of saying, “Hey, we’ve had enough tension here!”

Initially, it might seem like a minor annoyance, but as you keep pounding the pavement, those small irritations can snowball into a full-blown injury.

The key here is early detection and prompt treatment. Ignoring it could lead to some unpleasant consequences down the road.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Overuse is the main culprit. However, several factors can increase your chances of developing this painful condition.

Here’s the lowdown on some of them:

  • Overdoing It Too Quickly: Pushing your limits too fast is a classic mistake. Rapidly increasing your running distance can put undue stress on your plantar fascia, paving the way for injury.
  • Carrying Extra Weight: If you’re on the heavier side, your plantar fascia might bear the brunt of the load. Those extra pounds can lead to irritation, pain, and, eventually, Plantar Fasciitis.
  • Gender: Surprisingly, women are about twice as likely to develop Plantar Fasciitis compared to men, as indicated by research.
  • Inadequate Footwear: Wearing the wrong running shoes can spell trouble. Shoes with insufficient arch support, heel cushioning, or sole flexibility can exacerbate the problem.
  • Poor Running Form: If you’re not running with the proper technique, you’re increasing the strain on your plantar fascia. Make sure to follow guidelines on proper running form to minimize the risk.
  • Mobility Issues: Research suggests that a tight Achilles tendon, that large tendon above your heel, can contribute to the development of Plantar Fasciitis. Stretching exercises can help alleviate this problem.

The Main Symptoms

Plantar Fasciitis typically presents with distinct symptoms that can help you identify the condition:

  • Gradual Heel Pain: The hallmark of Plantar Fasciitis is the gradual onset of sharp pain on the bottom of your heel, especially near the inside of the foot.
  • Morning Discomfort: You might notice intense heel pain during your first few steps in the morning. This phenomenon is often referred to as “first-step pain.”
  • Pain After Rest: After periods of rest, such as sitting for a while or getting up from a chair, you may experience heel pain.
  • Aggravation with Activity: Activities that put pressure on your feet, like climbing stairs or standing for extended periods, can trigger or exacerbate the pain.
  • Evening Recurrence: The heel pain may temporarily subside during the day, but make a return in the evening.

Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis

As I have already clearly stated, the condition can be a real nagging injury that only gets worse the longer it’s present.

Hence, the sooner you put in place an aggressive treatment plan, the better off you’ll be, both for the short and long term.

For that, here is the step-by-step treatment plan you need to follow:

Rest

Taking a break from activities that aggravate your condition, such as running and high-impact exercises, is essential. The duration of your rest period can vary depending on the severity of your condition. It might last a few days, several weeks, or even a few months. Pay attention to the intensity and frequency of your pain as a guideline for when to resume activity.

Keep in mind that Plantar Fasciitis typically develops over time due to accumulated injuries, so it’s important to give your foot the time it needs to heal properly. Resting is a crucial step in the recovery process.

Additional resource – How to Prevent ITBS in Runners

Massage for Reducing Pain

Self-massage and soft-tissue manipulation can provide relief from Plantar Fasciitis pain.

Here’s how you can do it:

  • Get a golf ball or a similar round, hard object.
  • Gently roll the affected foot back and forth over the ball.
  • Start with a few minutes a day and gradually increase to 5 minutes daily.

You can also use a frozen water bottle by rolling it under your injured foot.

Active Release Technique is a more advanced soft-tissue manipulation technique that may help alleviate Plantar Fasciitis pain. While scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited, some individuals find it beneficial.

Try Orthotics

Consider using Over-The-Counter (OTC) orthotics to provide additional arch support, especially if you have a history of Plantar Fasciitis, faulty foot mechanics, or high arches. Research indicates that orthotics can help reduce pain and address faulty foot mechanics, a common cause of this condition.

OTC orthotics are readily available and cost-effective compared to custom orthotics, which can take weeks to receive. Ensure you use them in both shoes, even if only one foot is affected. If OTC orthotics don’t provide relief, consult a podiatrist for custom orthotics tailored to your needs.

Additional Resource – Overpronation vs. Underpronation

Kill the Pain

If you’re experiencing severe pain, consider using cold therapy on the affected area. Apply an ice pack (you can use a store-bought ice pack or a bag of frozen peas or corn wrapped in a towel) for 10 to 15 minutes daily.

Additionally, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, naproxen, or paracetamol to alleviate pain and inflammation.

Stretch it

Stretching is another effective strategy to expedite your recovery and reduce the risk of re-injury. Incorporate these stretches several times a day, making sure to stretch both feet.

Perform a few (check below) stretches pre-run, in the morning, and whenever you experience soreness or pain after running. A recommended stretching routine involves three to five sets of 30 seconds per stretch.

See a Doctor

If your pain persists despite trying the aforementioned measures, it’s crucial to consult a sports podiatrist.

In some cases, your doctor may recommend treatment options like cortisone injections, foot taping, night splints, or other tools to alleviate symptoms and expedite recovery. In severe cases, physical therapy may be necessary to fully restore plantar fasciitis function.

How to Treat Plantar Fasciitis When Running – The Conclusion

There you have it.

The above measures are some of the best you can implement right now as a part of your running routine to help reduce the risks of developing plantar fasciitis.

If you suspect you have plantar fasciitis—or any other overuse injury—visit your doctor or physical therapist for an evaluation.

The best way to determine the culprit behind your pain and provide a quick path toward full recovery is by doing a full examination of the biodynamics of your ankle, foot, and gait.

As a runner, your feet are your best ally.

They take you wherever you want to go.

But you have to take good care of them to lead a healthy, active life.

The rest is up to you.

Please feel free to leave your comments and questions in the section below.

In the meantime, thank you for reading my post.

Keep Running Strong.

David D.

How to Stop Feeling Nauseous After Running

picture of nausea

Would like you like to learn how to stop feeling nauseous after running? Then you’ve come to the right place.

But first things first, let me tell you a little story.

Yesterday I had one of my best long runs in a long time.

I felt strong and in my element.

Everything was spot on.

Unfortunately, as soon as I got home, I felt super nauseous.

Instead of enjoying my post-run ritual, I spent it doubled over the toilet, spilling my guts.

Right on the spot, I knew something was amiss.

I did a quick Google search, and it turned out that a mix of sushi (a bad pre-run meal for me), humidity, and harder-than-usual long run were likely what made my stomach act out.

To save you from similar future trouble, I decided to write a full post on it.

Here are the guidelines you need to prevent throwing up during and after a run.

Nausea When Running Explained

Before I get into how to stop feeling nauseous after running, let’s first admit something.

Here’s the truth. Running-induced nausea is a real thing.

It can happen to anyone—and can get in the way of the post-run bliss you should be enjoying—just as happened to me.

Running-induced nausea is a feeling of sickness or vomiting that strikes during a run or shortly after a run.

The condition can be a symptom of fatigue, eating the wrong foods, underlying illness, and more.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I’d use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. 

Why Do I Feel Like Throwing up After Running

There are a multitude of things that can cause nausea (exercise-induced or not), but they all fall under one of two general categories: physiological or mechanical.

The physiological causes primarily involve blood flow.

When running, up to 80 percent of blood flow gets diverted from the GI tract to the working skeletal muscles and skin.

When this happens, digestion drastically slows down, and that, in turn, may induce discomfort, even triggering a vomiting or nausea response.

This is especially true if you had a meal or snack too close to exercise time.

The other major culprit is a mechanical response.

The simple up and down jostling of the body while running stirs the bowels and manhandles the intestines (and whatever’s in them), which, in turn, can provoke nausea.

Again, this is made worse by having a full meal close to workout time.

There are other things that can bring on nausea while exercising.

These include:

  • Low blood sugar
  • Running too intensely
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Dehydration
  • Skipping the cool-down.
  • Having a history of GERD disease
  • Climate conditions

How to Stop Feeling Nauseous After Running

The blustery feeling in your stomach is preventable if you take the right precautions.

Take the following measures to help prevent throwing up after running.

Nausea When Running Fix – 1. Mind Your Pre-Run Meal

To avoid a sluggish, nauseating feeling during a run, I strongly recommend planning your session for two to three hours after a regular meal, or longer if you’re prone to the condition.

That’s your first step.

If you run in the morning, have a small pre-run snack, but if you’re nausea prone make it a rule not to eat within an hour of starting your session.  Check these healthy snacks here.

Opt for good sources of complex carbs and healthy proteins that are quick to digest.

Banana, oranges, eggs, and fish are all good choices.

Also, make sure to experiment with different types of food and the timing of your meals before running to find what works the best for you.

Additional resource – Probiotics For Runners 

Nausea When Running Fix – 2. Stay Within Your Fitness Level

When you’re overextending past your fitness level, your body reacts by boosting blood flow to your vital organs and skeletal muscles.

That’s how you’re able to keep working out for an extended period of time.

Unfortunately, when that happens blood is rushed away from your stomach and sent to your extremities.

This, in turn, makes you feel nauseated and sick.

The takeaway is that to ward off running-induced nausea, you need to exercise within your fitness level.

If your body is not used to a certain training intensity (like running eight miles at a 6:30-minute pace), don’t go at it full throttle.

You’re only going to run your body into the ground.

Instead, keep intensity within your tolerated range.

To err on the side of caution, increase your running distance and intensity incrementally.

Don’t know how?

Simply opt for the 10 percent rule.

Once you’re running for an hour at a conversational pace, add a speedwork session to your weekly routine.

prevent throwing up while running

Nausea When Running Fix – 3. Hydrate

As you run, you lose water through sweat.

The fluid that’s lost must be swiftly replaced.

Otherwise, you’re setting the stage for dehydration.

When you’re dehydrated your body lacks the key fluids, it needs to optimally perform its normal functions, and this results in a slew of problems, including manifesting as nausea.

Make sure to steadily drink plenty of water before, during and after a run.

Nausea When Running Fix – 4. Cool Down

When you stop running abruptly, your heart continues to pump blood to your extremities.

This leaves less blood for your brain, which in turn can trigger nausea in some individuals.

I strongly recommend that you invest time into a decent cooldown, even if you’re not prone to post-run nausea.

A solid sequence helps redirect blood flow more evenly throughout your body and bring things back to a normal level of function.

Here’s my favorite cool-down sequence.

Nausea When Running Fix – 5. Seek Medical help

If everything fails and your nausea symptoms are only getting worse, you MUST seek medical attention immediately.

Your doctor’s visit can help you rule out any underlying issues.

New to Running? Start Here…

If you’re serious about running, getting fit, and staying injury free, then make sure to download my Runners Blueprint Guide!

Inside this guide, you’ll learn how to start running and lose weight weight the easy and painless way. This is, in fact, your ultimate manifesto to becoming a faster and a stronger runner. And you want that, don’t you?

 Click HERE to check out my Runners Blueprint System today!

Don’t miss out! My awesome running plan is just one click away.

How to stop feeling nauseous after running – The Conclusion

Here you have it. The above guidelines are exactly what you need to prevent throwing up while running and exercising. Just make sure to take action on what you’ve just learned. The rest is just detail.

I’d love to hear from you in the comments section if you still have any questions or concerns.

In the meantime thank you for dropping by.

Keep Running Strong

David D.

Why Do I sweat So Much When I Run?

female runner wiping sweat after a running workout

“Why do I sweat so much when I run?”

If you’re looking for an answer, you have to the right place.

When I first took up running a few years ago, I relied on sweat as my main indicator of how hard I was pushing myself.

The more I sweat, the better and more accomplished I felt.

As I got fitter, however, I noticed that I’d started to sweat a lot more than before.

In fact, most of the time I ended up a sweaty mess by the end of my runs.

The profuse sweating scared me, as I thought there was something wrong.

Concerned,  I did what most people would do:

I Googled it.

To my relief, I found that I’d been worried over nothing.

In this post, you’ll learn the basics of what sweating is, why it happens, and how to deal with it if you’re concerned about it.

You’ll soon understand that when you’re a runner, sweating is your best ally and friend.

Sweating While Running Explained

Let’s break down the science of sweat.

Sweating is the natural process that regulates your core body temperature by keeping it as close to 98.6 degrees as possible.

When your body starts to overheat (for instance, while running), the nervous system activates the sweat glands to release perspiration, which is a water-and-electrolyte solution.

That in turn cools off the skin, resulting in a chain reaction of temperature reduction that eventually brings your core temperature down.

There are other forms of sweat that have nothing to do with heat regulation.

People sweat profusely when they’re nervous, or even as a response to spicy foods or hormonal changes.

Why Do I Sweat so Much When I Run – The Factors

Since every runner’s body is different, sweat rates vary from one person to the next.

The exact amount that you sweat is determined by a slew of factors including the number of sweat glands you have (between 3 and 5 million), outdoor temperature, resting body temperature, clothes worn, training intensity, fitness level, etc.

Generally speaking, the fitter you are, the more you’ll sweat.

The reason boils down to engine efficiency.

Fitter athletes tend to sweat more, and they start sweating a lot earlier in their workouts because their body’s thermoregulation system kicks into action faster.

That in turn helps them keep their core temperature down from the start of their session to the end.

Speaking for myself, I started noticing my increased sweat rate once I got serious about my running, doing lots of long runs and more intense interval workouts.

Nowadays I simply think of it as the price I pay for being fit.

What’s Normal Sweating?

Any amount of sweat is considered normal.

Everyone sweats a baseline amount at all times, even if you’re sweating more profusely than your training buddy.

The average person sweats between 0.8 to 1.4 liters, or 27.4 to 47.3 ounces per hour of exercise.

That’s equal to roughly one to three pounds of body weight.

Excessive Sweating While Running

If you still think you sweat too much, you probably do, especially if you sweat from a specific area of the body without engaging in any physical activity.

It may indicate hyperhidrosis, a common affliction marked by excessive sweating that affects roughly three percent of the U.S. population.

Hyperhidrosis is typically described as any sweating that obstructs normal daily activities.

People who have it may sweat up to four to five times the amount that other people do.

They also report sweating in cool environments for no obvious reason.

If this is your particular case, consult a doctor to discuss the treatment options available and to rule out any other underlying conditions.

Keep in mind that only a certified physician can officially diagnose such a condition.

Additional resource – What’s the best temperature for running

runner sweating while running on a trail

Why Do I Sweat So Much When I run – The Solutions You Need

Tired of dealing with sweat during your runs?

Try these simple solutions:

Measure Your Sweat Rate

Still don’t know whether you sweat more than normal?

Try measuring your sweat rate.

Doing so will help put your concerns to rest.

You do it by monitoring your pre and post-training bodyweight.

To begin, record your nude body weight before a run, then once you’re done, dry yourself immediately, strip down, and step on the same scale again.

The difference between your weight before and after your workout shows exactly how much fluid you lost.

For this to work, you need a digital scale, as it will show more detailed numbers (think 177.9 vs. 177).

Also, make sure your bladder and bowels are empty before stepping on the scale.

Record what and how much fluid you consumed during the run itself, as well as the weather conditions.

Your next step is to convert your sweat loss to ounces.

This tells you your fluid needs following a workout.

For each pound, you lost 16 ounces of fluid.

(or one liter of fluid for each kilogram).

For example, if you lose 2 pounds, your sweat rate for that particular session is 32 ounces.

This tells you that you need to drink that same amount to replace any fluid losses and stay well hydrated.

Additional resource – Running in the sun

Hydrate

Now that you know how much you’re sweating when running, the next step is to replace the fluid losses.

To keep your body well hydrated, make sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after your runs.

For longer sessions, hydrate on the run.

Drink eight to ten ounces of water for every 15 to 20 minutes of exercise, and make sure to drink an extra eight to ten ounces of fluid within 30 minutes of finishing your run.

During your runs, you’re also likely losing lots of vital electrolytes through your sweat.

If you sweat profusely or run for extended periods of time in hot weather, make sure to take in some salt to make up for your electrolyte losses.

Additional resource – Sodium for for runners

Turn On a Fan

When running on a treadmill, turn on a fan, open a window, or lower the air conditioning to reduce humidity in the air.

Consider Medicating

Use an over-the-counter antiperspirant containing about 10 to 15 percent aluminum chloride, and don’t restrict your use to your armpits.

Antiperspirants can also help curb sweating when applied to the palms and soles of the feet.

Just keep in mind that some antiperspirants are prescription only, so consult your doctor for the best option for you.

Cool Off

Immediately following a run, take a cold shower (if possible).

Anything that lowers your core body temperature will help you stop sweating faster.

Keep It Tidy

Shaving your armpits removes hair that keeps deodorant and antiperspirants from getting to your skin.

It also helps decrease odor because your hair holds more bacteria than your skin does.

Dress Properly

Invest in summer-friendly running apparel.

That means going for lightweight, synthetic fabrics with ample ventilation that will pull sweat away from your skin to the outer surface where it evaporates.

This type of clothing allows heat to move away from the body.

Merino and bamboo are excellent options.

Here’s the full guide to cold weather running gear.

Watch Your Diet

Your diet can influence your athletic performance, your health, and your sweat rate.

Consuming certain foods, including caffeine, garlic, onions, and curry, can stimulate your sweat glands, making you sweat more than normal.

Making these simple tweaks to your diet might solve your sweat problems.

New to Running? Start Here…

If you’re serious about running, getting fit, and staying injury free, then make sure to download my Runners Blueprint Guide!

Inside this guide, you’ll learn how to start running and lose weight weight the easy and painless way. This is, in fact, your ultimate manifesto to becoming a faster and a stronger runner. And you want that, don’t you?

 Click HERE to check out my Runners Blueprint System today!

Don’t miss out! My awesome running plan is just one click away.

Conclusion

There you have it! I hope today’s post offers a clear answer on the “Why do I sweat so much when I run” question.

If you have any concerns or questions, feel free to leave them in the comments section below.

In the meantime, thank you for reading my post.

David D.

The 13 Best Exercises To Improve Running

Strength Exercises For Runners

Are you looking for the best exercises to improve running skills? You have come to the right place.

Once I started strength training regularly, I became a much more efficient and injury resistant runner.

And I believe the same could happen to you if you only just heed the advice I’m going to share with you in today’s post.

In fact, increasing total body muscular strength should be a part of every runner’s cross-training fitness plan.

Backing your road miles with off-road strengthening exercises will not only assist in injury prevention, but also turn you into a stronger, and more efficient runner.

And that’s a good thing if you ask me.

In other words, strength training is the backbone of great running training—no matter what your goals are.

Why do you need to strength train?

Well, for many reasons, including:

  • To increase strength and power in key running muscles such as the calves, quads, glutes, and hamstrings. This translates into better athletic performance both on and off the running track.
  • To fix muscle imbalances. Research has linked muscles imbalances (when a muscle group is stronger or weaker than the opposite group) to all sorts of overuse injuries, such as Runners Knees, IT band syndrome and the like.
  • To improve running form. Your muscles play a major role in helping you develop and keep proper form—especially when fatigue starts to set in. That’s why increasing strength in your core and upper body muscles is crucial. Doing so also provides you with more stability and support throughout a running gait.

Of course, as a runner myself, I’m assuming that you want the above things as well.

The 13 Best Exercises To Improve Running

Without further ado, here are the exercises most appropriate for runners.

Exercise To Improve Running No – 1. Forward Lunge

This asymmetrical standing exercise is among the most running friendly exercises out there—and for many reasons.

Lunges are convenient, versatile, and focus on the muscles runners use the most: glutes, hamstrings, and quadriceps.

Plus, they also increase the range of motion and improve balance and coordination—key running skills.

Proper Form

Begin by assuming a feet shoulder-width apart while holding a dumbbell in each hand.

Next, step forward with your right foot, shifting your weight to that foot’s heel.

Step far enough forward that both of your knees are bent at about 90-degree angle.

Lower your body until the front knee is positioned over the ankle and the back knee is a few inches off the ground. Make sure to remain as stable as possible with spine neutral throughout the movement.

Then step back to starting position, and repeat on the other side.

Perform 12 to 16 reps to complete one set. Aim for three sets.

Exercise To Improve Running No – 2. Planks

One of my favorite core exercises of all time!

Your core muscles, including the lower back, glutes, rectus abdominis (the six-pack), transverse abdominis (the “deep” abs), and obliques, work together to maintain pelvis neutrality and hold proper form when you run.

Plus, a strong core also reduces energy waste, preventing a litany of injuries and boosting your stride power. As you already know, runners are all about preventing injury and improving performance.

Proper Form

Begin by propping yourself on your elbows with the feet slightly apart.

Keep your abdominals engaged, back straight,

and shoulders directly above the elbows down and back, arms parallel to the body.

Instead of locking your knees, make sure to keep them slightly bent.

Hold this position for one full minute to complete one set.

Gradually add time (or weights!) as your gets stronger.

Additional Resource – Your guide to weighted vests for running.

Strength Exercises For Runners

Exercise To Improve Running No – 3. Push-ups

Just because you’re a runner does not mean that upper body strength is trivial.

The fact is, as already stated in this post, proper upper body strength is key for both efficient running and proper form. No doubts.

Not only that, but it also helps take the pressure off your hips, knees, and ankles as fatigue sets in.

And when it comes up building upper body strength and power, you cannot go wrong with pushups.

This symmetrical exercise helps develop upper body and core strength and endurance like nothing else.

More specifically, pushups target the pectoralis muscles of the chest, but they also train the triceps—the muscles at the back of the upper arms, and the shoulders.

Proper Form

Assume a plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart, back flat, and feet slightly apart.

Next, lower your body by bending your elbows to a 90-degree angle, keeping them relatively close to your torso, until your chest hover the ground.

Keep your glutes engaged and torso rigid throughout the exercise—hiked, or sagging hips is a sign that you lack enough strength to perform the exercise properly.

Then press back up to starting position and repeat.

Do as many push-ups as possible with good form to complete one set. Aim for three sets.

Exercise To Improve Running No – 4. The Twisting Lunge

This lunge variation is a great core exercise that also increases lower body strength, coordination, and balance.

Also, the twisting motion forces the glutes to contract more fully while it engages the core.

Proper Form

Assume an athletic position while holding a dumbbell or a medicine ball in front of you with elbows bent at approximately 90-degree angle.

Step forward with your right foot into a lunge position.

Then, while keeping your knee on the right foot, twist your upper body to the right.

Maintain a 90-degree angle bent in the front knee, then straighten and engage your rear leg.

Last up, slowly press back to starting position.

Exercise To Improve Running No – 5. Russian Twists

These are one of the best exercises for working the obliques—the muscles that help rotate the torso and stabilize the spine.

Plus, Russian twists can also target the hips, back, arms, and shoulders, depending on the weight apparatus used and/or loading of the movement.

Proper Form

Begin by sitting down on the floor while keeping your back at 45-degree angle, both feet either flat the floor (easy) or in the air (more advanced) so your body is forming a V shape.

Make sure to keep your back flat at this angle throughout the movement. Do not hunch your shoulders forward.

Next, twist your upper body to the right, hold for a count of three, then slowly rotate back to starting position.

Repeat on the other side.

For more challenge, hold a dumbbell in each hand as you twist.

Exercise To Improve Running No – 6. Squats

If I had to pick one exercise that fits perfectly with the demands of running, then it would be squats.

This fantastic exercise boosts leg power, improves knee stability, increase the range of motion—all of which can prevent a plethora of overuse running injury.

For the full guide to squat variations, check my post here.

Proper Form

Assume an athletic position with feet shoulder-width apart, toes pointing ahead, while holding dumbbells at shoulder-height.

You can also perform this without weight while holding your arms extended in front or overhead.

Next, lower down by sitting back as if there is a chair behind you.

Lower your hips down until your thighs are parallel to the floor, forming a 90-degree angle. Just do not let your knees go past your toes.

Then press back up to starting position.

Exercise To Improve Running No – 7. The Bridge

This is one of the best exercises for strengthening the core stabilizer muscles, specifically the transversus abdominis and multifidus muscles.

The bridge also helps prevent lower back pain.

Not to mention that it’s the go-to move for toning the gluteus medius muscle—one of the three muscles responsible for creating the ever coveted lift.

Proper Form

Begin by lying down on your back with arms to the side, palms facing down, knees bent, and heels on the floor.

Next, raise your hips until knees, hips, and shoulders are in straight line. Squeeze your abs and glutes as you reach the top of the movement. Do not overextend your back during the exercise.

Hold the bridge post for a couple of seconds before easing back down.

Last up, slowly lower your hips back to the floor and allow to briefly touch the floor before completing another rep.

Exercise To Improve Running No – 8. Wall Sits

This isometric exercise is one of my favorites!

It’s an impressive lower body move that builds strength and endurance in the calves, glutes, and more importantly, the quadriceps.

Walls sits are also easy on the knees and can be performed by almost anyone.

Proper Form

Stand roughly two feet away from a wall.

Next, press your back against the wall with your feet shoulder-width apart and slide down the wall until you end up in a sitting position. Imagine there is a chair under you.

Keep your thighs parallel to the ground and feet firmly planted on the ground throughout the hold.

Hold the position for as long as you can. And remember to engage your legs and core muscles, while keeping the back flat throughout the hold.

Last up, slide up the wall to starting position to complete one set.

Exercise To Improve Running No – 9. The Deadlift

The deadlift is the mother of all full body exercises.

In fact, it’s one of the most basic powerlifting exercises.

The classic deadlift hits almost every muscle in the body, including the quads, calves, lower back,  and the core muscles.

Furthermore, study shows that the deadlift can also increase strength and muscle mass by boosting the release of the growth hormone.

Proper Form

Start by placing a heavy barbell on the floor in front of you, positioning your feet about halfway under the bar—roughly 3 inches from touching it.

Next, while hinging at the hips and keeping your back straight with the core engaged,  bend over until your shins touch the barbell then grab the loaded barbell.

Next, to pull the barbell off the ground, extend your hips and knees until you’re standing up straight.

On the way down, slowly lower the weight to the floor until you’re back to the starting position.

Perform 8 to 10 reps to complete one set.

Aim for three sets.

Exercise To Improve Running No – 10. Overhead Lunge

This is a quite challenging variation of the classic bodyweight lunge that targets the shoulders, the core, the glutes, hamstrings, and quadriceps—making it a total body exercise per excellence.

Not only that, but overhead lunges will also help you build and increase flexibility in the hip flexors.

Also, they are ideal for challenging your balance, proprioception, and overall mobility.

Proper Form

Start by standing tall with feet shoulder-width apart while holding a plate, a pair of dumbbells or a barbell straight above your shoulders.

Please, make sure that your arms are straight with the elbows locked.

Next, while keeping the weight directly overhead (in line with the shoulder joint )take a large step forward with your right leg and lower your body until your right knee is bent at 90-degree angle.

Last up, return to the starting position and repeat with your left leg to complete one rep.

If this is too challenging for you, then feel free to hold the weight at shoulder level.

Exercise To Improve Running No – 11. The Chin-up

Another awesome upper body weight that’s guaranteed to help you achieve the kind of upper body strength you always wanted.

This ideal exercise targets the core, the back and biceps muscles like nothing else.

If performing straight chin-up is too much for you, then feel free to use a chair assist for more help.

(check the YouTube Tutorial for how).

Proper Form

While using a pull-up bar, grab it with your palms facing you and with hands a bit wider than shoulder width apart.

Next, while keeping your core engaged and letting your body hang, raise yourself up until your chin is parallel with or over the bar.

Then, slowly release and repeat.

Exercise To Improve Running No – 12.  Kettlebell Swing

You might not be familiar with this kettlebell exercise, but kettlebell swings are some of the best functional and total body exercises that there is.

This particular exercise is good for runners because it can help you boost endurance, core stability, strength, and balance—all of which can help you improve your overall running power for any distance and running terrain.

Proper Form

Start by standing tall feet hip-width apart while holding a dumbbell (or a kettlebell) with both hands at arm’s length.

Next, bend your knees slightly, rock back and lower the weight to between legs until it’s below your butt.

Then, with a hip snapping motion, thrusts the hips forward and swings the kettlebell forward to shoulder height.

Please do this while keeping the arms straight and core engaged through the movement.

Continue swinging back and forth, allowing momentum to swing the kettlebell upward instead of trying to actively lift it with the arms.

Do 12 to 16 swings to complete one set.

Aim for three sets.

Exercise To Improve Running No – 13 Front Squat to Push Press

Also known as thrusters in the CrossFit circles, and it’s a mix of the classic squat and the powerful push press exercise.

This exercise hits almost every major muscle group in the body with the added benefits of increasing total body endurance, flexibility, mobility and coordination like nothing else.

Just be careful.

This is an advanced exercise.

You can only start doing it after mastering basic squat variations as well as the stand push-press exercise.

Proper Form

Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart while holding hold a sandbag on the shoulder and upper chest (or a barbell across the front of the shoulders).

Next, while keeping the core engaged and back flat, lower Don by pushing your hips back and bending your knees until you are in a full squat position.

Hold for a moment, then from the bottom position, explode back and stand back up as hard as you can while pushing the weight overhead, with the legs straight, shoulder stacked over your hips and arms fully extended.

This is one rep.

Do 8 to 12 reps to complete one set.

Aim for three sets.

New to Running? Start Here…

If you’re serious about running, getting fit, and staying injury free, then make sure to download my Runners Blueprint Guide!

Inside this guide, you’ll learn how to start running and lose weight weight the easy and painless way. This is, in fact, your ultimate manifesto to becoming a faster and a stronger runner. And you want that, don’t you?

Don’t miss out! My awesome running plan is just one click away.

Click HERE to learn more about The Runners Blueprint System today!

The 13 Best HIIT Running Workouts For Weight Loss

HIIT Workouts For Weight Loss

Looking for the best HIIT running workouts for weight loss?

Then you have come to the right place.

Why HIIT is famous? Simple. Because HIIT running workouts works like a charm for dropping pounds and achieving a healthy weight.

But to get the most out of high intensity training for weight loss, you need to set up your training the right way.

That’s where today’s post comes in handy.

In this article, I’m sharing with you the basics of high-intensity interval training so you can become your own coach and design your own plan.

Here’s a summary of what you’re going to learn by the end of this beginners guide to high-intensity interval training:

  • What is an HIIT running workout
  • Why HIIT is effective for Weight Loss
  • How long do HIIT workouts Should be?
  • How to add HIIT running Workouts For Weight Loss into your Exercise plan
  • When To Avoid High-intensity Interval Training For Weight Loss
  • The Treadmill Shed HIIT Workout
  • The Body Weight Incinerator HIIT Workout
  • The Plyometric Feast HIIT Workout
  • The Full Body HIIT Workout
  • The Hill Sprints HIIT Workout
  • The Weighted HIIT Sprints Workout
  • The Tabata HIIT Workout
  • The Stadium HIIT Workout
  • The Jump Rope HIIT Workout
  • The Staircase HIIT Workout
  • The Medicine Ball HIIT Workout
  • The HITT Sandbag Workout
  • The 30-Minute HIIT Hotel Workout Routine

Brace yourself, you’ll learn a lot and shed a lot!

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I’d use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. 

What is An HIIT Workout?

High-intensity interval training, as the name suggests, consists of intervals of short periods of intense exercise, followed by recovery periods in a circuit or cycle.

During HIIT, you, basically, alternate intervals of all-out-effort performed at 90 to 99 percent of your maximum heart rate with a minimum resting period.

The interval portions may include fast-paced bodyweight exercise, sprinting, or any other challenging movement, whereas the recovery periods usually consist of either low-intensity exercise, such as jogging or walking at a slow pace, or complete rest.

The Effectiveness of HIIT for Weight Loss

Over the last few decades, plenty of published studies have proven, beyond the shadow of a doubt, the impact of interval training on fat loss.

In fact, most of the experiments revealed that HITT to be more effective at shedding the pounds, maintaining (even improving) muscle mass, and increasing fitness than long periods of low to moderate intensity cardio training.

Let’s check out a few:

Study I

Two weeks of high-intensity interval training improves aerobic capacity as much as six to eight weeks of endurance training, according to research presented at the American College of Sports Medicine Annual Meeting.

Study II

Not only do intervals burn mad calories during the workout, but also increase metabolism for more than 24 hours afterward, research shows.

This means that you keep burning calories at a higher rate long after you have finished exercising.

Study III

Overweight subjects doing HIIT style workouts for an 8-week period dropped more than two percent in body fat as compared to those who followed a moderate steady-state cardio routine on the treadmill, according to research out of the East Tennessee State University.

Study IV

Research out of Australia revealed that female subjects following a 20-minute interval routine, (consisting of 8-second sprints followed by 12-second rest periods), lost about six times more body fat than the group who opted for a 40-minute steady-state cardio training at 60 percent of maximum heart rate.

I hope by now you’re already getting the big picture.

Whether you’re looking to lose 10 pounds, 20 pounds, or even more, HIIT delivers.

How To Make HIIT Running Workouts Work For Weight Loss

The key to burning a lot of calories while doing high-intensity interval training lies in how hard you push yourself during the intense intervals.

As a rule, aim to train at roughly 90 percent of your max—this is what’s known as training in an anaerobic mode.

This is the equivalent of 8 to 9 on the rated perceived exertion scale.

How long does an HIIT running workout for weight loss Should Be?

Here’s more good news.

You don’t need a huge time commitment to get the most out of HIIT.

In fact, research has reported that even doing as little as 10 minutes of HIIT workouts can have a huge positive impact on health.

Individuals with insulin resistance risk, for example, can benefit from doing a HIIT workout. Running can help increase insulin sensitivity, specifically when you vary your speeds and intensity throughout a much shorter time. This will help your body use blood glucose more effectively, thus reducing blood sugar levels. 

Here’s how to add HIIT workouts to your exercise plan:

  • Two to three days of strength training per week
  • Two to three HIIT workouts at 20 to 30 minutes.
  • One long steady-state cardio day –45 minutes or longer.

Be Careful

If you’re a beginner and/or are out of shape, don’t go 100 percent all out at once.

Instead of performing intervals at near-maximum capacity, do fewer than you think at closer to 80 to 90 percent of maximum effort, then take plenty of rest between each round to let your body fully recover.

Don’t chew more than you can swallow—or else, you’re going to regret it.

What’s worst than regret?

Stopping training altogether because you got injured or burned out.

You don’t want that.

Additional source  – How to run to lose belly fat?

When To Avoid High-intensity Interval Training For Weight Loss

If you’re a complete beginner with no fitness experience or recovering from an acute injury, HIIT is not for you (not yet until you pass the acute phase).

As a beginner, aim first to build your endurance and strength doing plenty of walks, jogs, and total body strength training.

This should be the foundation of your training.

Once you feel that your body is up to the task, start HIIT training but do it in a slow and gradual manner.

In case you’re dealing with an injury, let’s say shin splints, then take up HIIT once you’re pain-free and/or already have the green light from your doctor.

Don’t get too excited—or else, if you try to push through pain, you may make your injury worse.

HIIT Workouts For Weight Loss

The Best HIIT Workouts For Weight Loss

To jumpstart your HIIT program, I’ve compiled a short, but very effective, list of my favorite interval workouts for weight loss.

Pick one or two—or all of them—to add to your weekly training routine.

Just whatever you do, stay within your fitness level the entire time—that’s how you get fit (and slim) without getting hurt.

Remember to include at least one day of recovery between workouts as these routines are super challenging.

The rest is just detail.

HIIT Running Workout 1 – The Treadmill Shed Routine

Start the routine with a 5-minute jog to get your mind and body ready for the intense work ahead.

Then choose a treadmill speed that you can sustain for no more than 30 seconds.

You can also add a 4 percent incline for more intensity.

Next, perform eight to ten intervals for 30 seconds, followed by 90 seconds of recovery.

Make sure you push yourself during the interval, shooting for at least 8 to 9 RPM on a scale of 1 to 10.

Then slow it down to bring your breathing and heart rate back to normal.

Last up, finish the session with a 5-minute slow jog cool-down.

Then stretch your muscles.

HIIT Running Workout 2 – The Body Weight Incinerator

start your routine with a 5-minute slow to jog to warm up.

Then perform another five minute of dynamic routine just like this one.

Continue by performing 12 to 16 reps of the following exercises in the order shown for 30 minutes.

Take 10 seconds of rest between each exercise.

  • Squats
  • Sit-ups
  • Push-ups
  • Jumping jacks
  • Long lunges

Rest for one to two minutes, then repeat the circuit for four to five times.

Once you’re done, perform this stretching routine as cool-down.

HIIT Non-Running Workout 3 – The Plyometric Feast

Following a 10-minute dynamic warm-up, complete the following seventy moves in order with no rest in between.

  • Squat jumps – 20 reps
  • Plyo push-ups (on your knees if you have to)—8 reps
  • Jumping lunges—10 reps on each side
  • Burpees – 15 reps
  • Lateral lunge jump – 15 reps

Take a one-minute break between each round.

Shoot for eight to ten rounds.

HIIT Running Workout 4 – Hill Sprints

Hill sprints, also known as hill repetitions, are the most powerful form of sprints that there is.

They help you sculpt a killer core and lower body strength, Also, ward off leg injury because of the position of your body and the shorter stride.

Here’s how to get started.

Look around your neighborhood and find a hill with a steep slope that is at least 50 yards long.

The longer, the better.

begin your session with a warm-up, then sprint up the hill at 70 percent of your max effort.

Walk down for recovery and do no more than five sprints at about 80 percent of your maximum effort.

Finish the session with a slow five-minute jog on a flat surface, followed by a 15-minute static stretch for all of your major muscle groups—especially the calves, hamstrings, and the gluts.

Additional Resource – Here’s how to much to run to lose weight

HIIT Running Workout 5 – The Weighted Sprint

Adding weighted vests to your sprint workouts makes them more challenging, thereby increasing energy expenditure.

You’ll feel much lighter on your feet once you remove the vest.

Strap on a weighted vest—weighing no more than 10 pounds for starters—and perform your interval sprints on a track.

Don’t go full throttle on your first sessions.

Get your body familiar with the new workload, the, aim for heavier vests and more sprints,

And Keep pushing your body as hard as you can.

Additional Resource – Your guide to weighted vests for running.

HIIT Running Workout 6 – The Tabata Routine

Tabata inspired workouts have been dubbed the “4-minute fat-burning miracle workout” because they help you increase aerobic and anaerobic capacity, along with overall fitness level like nothing else.

To do Tabata training right, make it your goal to push as hard as possible for 20 seconds, rests for 10 seconds, then repeats this on-off pattern for a total eight times, taking four minutes to complete one Tabata round.

After a thorough warm-up, perform the following four rounds, aiming to complete the whole workout in less than 20 minutes.

High Knees

Assume an athletic position with feet hip-width apart, back flat and core activated.

Next, perform high knees by jumping from one foot to the other at the same time, bringing the knees up to waist level.

You can also bring your palm in front of your waist, attempt to touch your palm with your knees as quickly as possible.

Make sure you’re pumping your arms and landing on the balls of the feet as they run in place as fast as possible.

Continue for 20 seconds, rests for 10, and then repeats the cycle eight times.

Squats

Stand tall, feet hip-width apart, with most of the weight on the balls of the feet.

Next, while keeping the back flat, core engaged, and knees tracking over the toes, squat down, sitting back until the knees are bent at a 90 degrees angle.

The goal is to strengthen your glutes, not showing it off.

So make sure you don’t over curve your lower back.

Last up, press back up to standing position and repeats.

Continue for the full 20-second interval, then rests for 10 seconds, and repeat the cycle eight times.

Additional resource – How to measure body fat percentage

Burpees

Begin stands with feet hip-width apart, back flat, and core activated.

Next, squat, place your palms on the floor, then kick the feet back to end up in a full plank position, quickly hop the feet back into the squat, and finally explode up in the air, reaching the arms overhead.

Perform as many burpees as possible for 20 seconds, rests for 10 seconds, then repeat the whole cycle eight times.

Jumping Lunges

Assume a lunge position with the left foot forward, both knees bent at a 90-degree angle, with the right knee almost touching the floor.

Next, while keeping the torso straight and core engaged, have your client jump up as high possible, swapping leg position mid-air. immediately jump up back again to starting position and repeat.

Continue jump lunging for 20 seconds, then rests for 10 seconds, repeating the whole cycle eight times.

HIIT running Workouts For Weight Loss

HIIT Non-Running Workout 7 – The Sleds Routine

Sled training is a grueling workout with a simple premise:  you push the sled from point A to point B as fast and as hard as possible with good technique.

Here’s how to proceed.

Load a sled with two 45-pound plates on each side.

Next, push the sled for the given distance without stopping, pause, then push back to starting position.

As you move forward, keep a straight line from head to ankle throughout the exercise, with the power coming from the hips and legs.

To do that, press and drive the feet diagonally into the ground with each step they take.

Rest for one minute and repeat for five to seven more times.

Push the sled with perfect form at all times.

HIIT Running Workout 8 -The Stadium Routine

Feeling trapped in the gym?

Hit the stadium.

In fact, you can get a lung-busting, muscle-burning session only by using the nearby stadium as a gym.

Here is an interval stadium workout routine to help you get into the best shape ever.

Perform the following exercises back to back, taking a 30-second rest between each exercise.

Aim to complete two to three total rounds.

Sprints

Start at one end of the straightway section of the track, then sprint full effort for 100 meters.

Rest for 30-seconds, then sprint back to the starting position.

Stair sprints

Run up the steps as fast as possible while driving your knees up and pumping your arms quickly and powerfully to keep momentum.

Then briskly walk down to starting position.

Double-step run

Sprint up the stairs as fast as you can while striding powerfully enough to skip every other step.

Double-leg hops

Begin by standing facing a series of steps with feet shoulder-width apart.

Assume a slight squat position, with your upper body, align or lower than your lower body then jump up and forward onto the first step, and land softly, knees slightly bent.

Pause, and then jump onto the second step and so on.

Continue making your way up to the top of the stairs until you reach the last step, then turn around and slowly walk back down.

HIIT Workout  9 – The Jump Rope Routine

Jump rope is a crucial training part of many sports, including tennis players, boxers, runners, and martial artists.

It’s also very convenient.

All you need is a properly-sized jump rope, and there you go.

Here’s one of my favorite jump rope routines:

Forward jump (basic jump)

Swing the rope over your head and jumps over it with both feet on every rotation.

Make sure you’re not jumping too high, just high enough to clear the rope.

Continue for one to two minutes, then recover for 30 seconds before moving to the next exercise.

Alternate-foot Jump

Instead of hopping over the rope, alternate the feet as if running in place.

Stay on the balls of the feet the entire time.

Continue for one to two minutes to finish one round.

Side-to-side Jumps

While opting for the basic jump, jump a few inches from side to side, using both feet.

Continue for one minute to finish one round.

Double Jump

Jump high enough in the air, or swing it fast enough, to pass the rope under the feet twice before landing.

Continue for 30 to 60 seconds to complete one set.

Single Foot Hops

Start hopping over the jump rope with the right foot for 30 seconds, then switch to the left foot and repeat.

Be sure to switch sides without stopping.

Aim for one-minute hops on each foot.

Additional link – Slow running vs fast running for fat loss

HIIT Running Workout 10- The Staircase Routine

Stair climbing exercises tone the calves, quads, glutes, and other lower body muscles without putting too much stress on the joints since it has less impact on the body.

Perform each exercise for 30 seconds to one minute, try as many reps as possible with good form.

Rest for one to two minutes between each circuit and aim to repeat it two to three times.

Sprints

Start facing the bottom of the stairs.

Next, while keeping the chest up and back flat, sprint up using each step as fast as possible.

Make sure you’re pumping your arms by the sides and making contact with each step.

Then, walk down for recovery and repeat.

Mountain Climbers

Assume a plank position with the hands on the second step, arms straight, legs extended, and core engaged.

Next, bring the right knee to the chest as close as they can, return to the starting position, then switch sides.

Continues alternating legs, bringing one knee at a time to the chest as fast as possible without losing form for one minute to complete one set.

Skip a Step

Sprint up the stairs, jumping high enough to skip two, or three, steps at a time.

Last up; walk down for recovery and repeats.

Additional resource – Here’s how long does it take to lose 100 pounds.

Stairs Decline Push-ups

Begin facing away from the bottom of the staircase and then assume a plank position with hands on the floor slightly wider than shoulder-width, and feet on the second or third step.

while keeping your body straight, perform a push-up by bending the elbows and lowering the upper body to the floor, then push back up until arms are fully extended to complete one rep.

Squat Jumps

Start facing the stairs, lowers into a squat, then while engaging the core and using both feet, jump up to the next step, landing in a squat.

As soon as you land in the squat, have them hop up to the next step, and continue until they reach the top of the stairs.

Just pay attention if you’re dealing with any ankle pain.

Walk down for recovery and repeats for one minute to complete one set.

Hop-ups

Stand tall, feet slightly more than shoulder-width apart and core engaged.

hop up and down from the first or second stair for one full minute without stopping to complete one set.

Rest for one to two minutes then repeats the whole circuit two to three times.

Additional resource  – Trx exercises for runners

HIIT Non-running Workout 11 – The Medicine Ball Routine

I love exercising with medicine balls.

They are fun, versatile, and challenge my body in ways that other workout routines can’t even come close.

Plus, med ball moves tend to be full-body exercises, instead of just an ab or a chest press, so they are really time efficient and enjoyable.

I typically prefer to use the Everlast medicine ball.

This brand comes in a variety of shapes, colors, and weights, and I love its textured surface, which ensures superior grip and handling ($50 – Get it Here).

If you are looking for durability, then get the Elite Power Medicine Ball.

This brand is perfectly balanced, bounces very well and it’s incredibly durable ($67 – Get it Here).

Another brand I love is the Nike Med Ball.

This one is mainly made with rubber and bounces very well, so it’s ideal for functional weight training ($25-100 – Get it Here).

Toe Touch

Begin by laying down on your back while holding a med ball in both hands, both legs raised and straight so they perpendicular to the ground.

Next, raise your torso and arms off the floor until the ball taps your toes, pause for a second, then slowly lower your torso down.

Make sure to keep your legs touching and in position the entire time.

Do 10 reps to complete one set.

Shoot for three sets.

Squat to Chest Pass

Start off by standing 3 to 5 feet from a wall with feet shoulder-width apart while holding the ball in hand at chest level

Next, to perform this exercise, drop down into a squat position, then explode up and toss the ball against the wall as hard as possible by pushing it outwards from your chest.

Then, seize the ball as it bounces back in one continuous action and moves into the next rep.

Then, repeat as fast as you can.

Do three sets of 16 reps each.

Suitcase Crunch

Lay on the floor on your back while holding a med ball, using both hands.

Make sure your arms are fully extended overhead.

Next, lift your torso, bend your right knee toward your chest then take the ball over your knee and toward your foot, pause for a moment, then gradually come back to the starting position.

Switch sides to complete one rep.

Do 8 reps to complete one set.

Aim for three sets.

Diagonal Chop

Assume an athletic position while holding a med ball at head height, hands on each side of the ball.

Next, while keeping your core activated and back straight, bring the ball down as hard as you can (imagine that you are chopping wood with the med ball), then bring it back up to the starting position.

Do 12 reps to complete one set.

Aim for three sets.

Overhead Slams

Stand tall feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, core engaged with a slam medicine ball held overhead.

Next, slam the ball down into the floor with as much power as possible.

Make sure to exhale during the slam and engage the core muscles.

Last up, pick up the med ball and lift it back to the starting position repeats.

Do 16 to 20 reps to complete one set.

Aim for five sets.

Medicine Ball Sit-up Throws

Start by laying down in a sit-up position on the floor with knees bent, facing a wall, or a partner.

Next, while holding the ball overhead with two hands crunch up and explosively throw the ball back to either against the wall or a receiver (a standing partner).

Last up, catch the med ball and repeats it.

Do 12 to 16 reps to complete one set.

Russian Twists

Begin by sitting on the ground with your knees slightly bent, back straight, and feet flat (easier) or raised up (more challenging).

That’s your starting position.

Next, while holding the med ball at chest level, lean back, engage your abs, then slowly rotate the ball around your mid-section to the right side, pause and tap the ball on the floor just outside of your right hip, then pull the ball back into your chest and repeat the motion on the other side to complete one rep.

Do 8 reps to complete one set.

Aim for three sets.

Bulgarian Split Squat with Medicine Ball

Hold a medicine ball in front of your chest with the top of the left foot on a bench behind you.

Your feet should be at least three feet apart.

Next, squat down as far as you can as you lower the ball toward the left thigh, pause for a moment, then push back up, lifting the ball above the right shoulder.

That’s one rep.

Do 10 reps on each side to complete one set.

Shoot for three sets.

Lunge to Rotation

Hold a medicine ball a few inches in front of your chest, then take a step forward into a lunge without letting the knee go over the toes.

Next, get deep into that lunge, then rotate your torso across your front leg, reaching the med ball to your right, pause for a moment, then reverse the movement back to starting position and repeats on the other side to complete one rep.

f you are looking for an explosive way to perform your medicine ball workouts, then you came to the right place.

Slam medicine balls exercises are an excellent way to increase explosive strength and power.

Here is a slam ball workout routine that will help you increase your range of motion and improve speed and explosiveness like nothing else.

Perpendicular Wall Ball Toss

Begin by standing about two to three away perpendicular to a wall, with the right hip closest to the wall and while holding a medicine ball in front of the waist.

Next, while engaging the core and extending the hips, throw the med ball toward the wall with as much force as possible for it to rebound back.

Catch the med ball and move immediately to the next rep.

Keep the back flat and chest up the entire time.

Shoot for 16 to 20 reps on each side to complete one set.

Medicine Ball Squat Throws Sprints

Stand tall, feet hip-width apart, while holding a med ball at chest level.

Squat down, then explode forward by extending both arms and legs and throwing the med ball forward with both hands.

As soon as the ball hits the floor, sprint forward until you catch up with the rolling ball, then repeat the squat-throw-chase eight to ten times to complete one set.

HIIT Non-Running Workout 12 – The Sandbag Routine

Sandbag training is another efficient way to do high-intensity interval training for weight loss.

To get started, you’ll need a bag.

You can either buy one, or make your own by following these steps:

  1. First of all: gather your materials. To make a sandbag you will need a duffle bag (make sure it’s resilient and can withstand abuse), a builder’s sandbag, sand (duh!), duct tape, and zip ties.
  2. Next, fill the builder’s bag with sand, wrap the top tightly then seal it tight with duct tape, and zip ties
  3. Finally, add the builder’s bag of sand directly in the duffel bag, then zip it shut. Make sure to leave enough wiggle room inside of the bag for the sand to splatter around.

Now put the bag to work, and do this powerful bag training routine to help you become the best runner (and athlete) you can be.

If you don’t want to make your own sandbag, then there are plenty of awesome commercial specialty sandbags designed with hardcore training in mind.

Perform the following workout as a circuit, and do the exercises in the order shown, performing as many reps as you can with good form.

Shoot for at least three complete sets of the circuit.

Sandbag Deadlift

Begin by standing with your feet right next to the bag, then grip the parallel handles or the material of the bag.

Next, tuck your toes under the bag, keep a neutral spine, with knees slightly bent, then take the slack out of the bag, and stand up straight, pulling the sandbag up as you lift your back.

Make sure to keep the sandbag close to your legs throughout the lifting motion.

Your back should be straight the entire time—never round your lower back when you pick up or lower the bag.

This is the recipe for lower back pain or herniation.

Last up, push your hips back and slowly return to starting position.

That’s one rep.

Sandbag Power Clean

Begin by standing behind the bag, feet parallel, and at hip-width.

Next, while keeping the sandbag closer to your shins, and knee slightly bent, bend over and pick up the bag by the side hands, lift it from the ground, and then explosively pull it upward by extending your knees and hips.

Next, and in one fluid movement, descend into a squat, then uncurl the sandbag and take it down to the floor returning to starting position.

That’s one rep.

Sandbag Rotational Lunge

Begin by grabbing the handles of the sandbag in each hand so that your palms are facing each other.

Next, while standing tall with feet together and sandbag to knee height, step your right leg forward, lunge, then bring the sandbag over your front leg’s knee and rotate through your waist.

Make sure to keep your back flat and core engaged the entire time – allow for no rounding forward, especially as you rotate with the sandbag.

Last up, while keeping your balance, push back to starting position, and switch sides to complete one rep.

Sandbag Front Squat

Start with feet shoulder-width apart, with toes slightly turned out, then clean the bag to the front position.

Next, push your hips back and squat down until your thighs are parallel to the ground, then drive the hips back upwards and press back to standing.

Squat in a slow and controlled manner and work your hamstrings and glutes as hard as you can.

Make sure to keep your knees tracking over your toes, knees in line with the feet, your elbows tight and body upright the entire time.

Thrusters

stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, back straight and knees slightly bent, then grab a hold of the bag, pick it up and hold it at shoulder height.

Next, while keeping the weight at chest heights the entire time, squat down, pause for a moment, then stand back up and push press the sandbag overhead until your arms are almost locked out.

Last up, return the weight to the chest and repeat the movement to complete one rep.

Around The World

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and hold a sandbag in front of you.

Next, pivot to your right and use your whole body to swing the bag quickly over and in a circle over your head to the left side.

Make sure to generate enough momentum and to keep your elbows in tight to prevent shoulder injury.

Instead of slowing down use your arms, legs, and core to swing the sandbag back to its original position, and complete one rep.

Repeat for 8 reps to complete one set.

HIIT Non-Running Workout 13 -The Hotel Routine

Traveling a lot and are afraid to miss your own HIIT workouts for weight loss?

This routine will have you covered as it will help keep your body in check when on the road.

I came up with this workout while in Kuala Lumpur for a short vacation.

I stayed in one of these four start hotel rooms with some fantastic facilities (and it wasn’t that expensive).

The workout consists of eight exercises, and the total workout is 40 minutes routine (including the 5 minutes warm-up and cooldown).

This routine will raise your heart rate, burns mad calories, builds muscle, and most importantly—challenges you physically and mentally.

Rows with Luggage

Stand with your feet hip-width apart while holding a suitcase horizontally by the ends, knees bent.

Next, while keeping the back flat, lean forward, hinge at the hips, then pull the luggage to your chest, driving the elbows straight back next to your ribs and drawing the shoulder blades together.

Hold for a moment, then lower it back down.

Repeat for 12 to 15 times.

Pushups

Assume a plank position, core engaged, tailbone tucked in, and fingers spread wide.

Next, while engaging the core and keeping the back flat, bend your arms and lower down until your chest almost touches the ground, then press back up.

Do ten reps.

Luggage Overhead Presses

Begin standing with your feet hip-width apart with the luggage at chest or shoulder height—as in a front squat.

While engaging the core and keeping the back flat, press the luggage upwards and above your head.

Make sure your arms go to full extension.

Keep your head slightly in front of the arms at this point of the extension.

Chair Dips

Sit on a chair then grip the edge with both hands, knuckles pointing forward.

Next, slide your bottom off the chair just far enough that your butt clears the edge of the chair, then hold yourself with arms straight.

Slowly lower your body until your elbows are bent 45 and 90 degrees, then raise yourself up. Just make sure your elbows are pointing directly beneath you, not out to the side.

Planks/sphinx

Begin on the floor on your hands and knees.

Next, bend your elbows 90 degrees and lower your forearms to the floor with the elbows positioned under your shoulders and hand shoulders width apart.

Make sure your elbows are directly beneath your shoulders and that your body is forming a straight line from head to ankles.

Hold the position for as long as you can.

Shoot for one to two minutes hold

What Muscles Does Running Work? (2023 Update)

Looking to learn about what muscles does running work?

Then you’re in the right place.

Different muscles are used when you log the miles.

In fact, hundreds of muscles work together to propel your body into the forward motion.

But, some running muscles are more important than others.

Here are the muscle groups that targeted, worked, and used, during a running workout.:

  • Quadriceps
  • Hamstrings
  • Gluteals
  • Hip Flexors
  • Calves
  • Thoracic Diaphragm
  • Tensor Fascia Latae
  • Flexor Hallucis Brevis or Longus
  • Tibialis Anterior
  • Peroneals
  • Core Muscles
  • Upper Body Muscles (chest, back, shoulders, etc)

Let’s break down the main muscles used in running, explain their importance, what can go wrong with them, and most importantly, how to strengthen and condition your running muscles.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I’d use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. 

Muscle Anatomy – An Introduction

 The human body is an amazing piece of “machinery,” and muscles are a big part of what drives it.

Your muscle tissue consists of protein filaments of actin and myosin.

These  slide past one another, producing contractions that shift the shape and length of the cell muscle function to generate motion, force, and torque.

Some of the muscles primary functions include:

  • Moving your body
  • Keeping you upright,
  • Protect internal organs
  • Generating heat,
  • Supporting organ functions
  • And so much more

The Main Muscle Tissue

 There are three distinct types: cardiac, smooth, and skeletal.

Each type serves a specific role in the body, with a particular structure and a definite function.

Let’s break down each.

The Cardiac Muscles

 Cardiac muscles are found in the walls of the heart.

These are striated—meaning that the muscle fibers contain alternating light and dark bands.

This type of muscle fiber is under the control of the autonomic nervous system — meaning you can’t control the contraction.

Can you imagine if cardiac muscles can be controlled?

That’s gonna be like playing God.

Cardiac muscles are also highly resistant to fatigue thanks to the high concentration of mitochondria, myoglobin, and a decent blood supply allowing for constant aerobic metabolism.

Smooth Muscles

What’s known as the muscles of the organs, smooth muscles are found in the walls of hollow internal structures, such as the stomach, urinary tract, respiratory tract, and in the walls of blood vessels.

Smooth muscles are pretty flexible as they can change shape to regulate bodily functions, such as blood pressure, digestion, breathing, raising hairs, focusing eye, etc.

Skeletal muscles

 Last but not least, you also have skeletal muscles (the topic of today’s post).

Skeletal muscles are made of very elastic fibers connected by tissue and named for their location—attached to the bones.

The human body contains more than 650 named skeletal muscles, accounting for about one-third of the human body mass.

Skeletal muscles responsible mostly for movement when performing any form of physical activity, including running.

What Muscles Does
Running Work

Now that you understand a bit what muscles are all about, let’s look into the main muscles that running works the most.

The Quadriceps

As you move your leg forward, you’re primarily using the quadriceps muscles, the muscles located on the front of the thighs.

The quads run from the hips and upper femur down to the patella—the kneecap.

They consist of a group of four muscles that include:

  • The Vastus Medialis,
  • Vastus Intermedius,
  • Vastus Lateralis (vastus externus), and
  • Rectus Femoris. See picture.

 Functions Of The Quadriceps:

 Extending the knee, especially during the “drive” phase.

  • Hip flexor. Bending your hips. Your rectus femoris (see picture) is responsible for flexing the hips—the motion necessary to lift your feet off the ground.
  • Straightening and stabilizing your knees during running gait as the four heads of the quad are connected to the patella—the kneecap.
  • Absorbing the shock of impact upon landing, then dispersing it as it passes through the rest of the body.

 Downsides of Weakness

 A common dysfunction among many runners is having excessively stronger quadriceps than the hamstrings, the opposing muscle group.

This can have an adverse impact on leg posture and proper positioning, increasing the risks of overuse injury in the lower back, pelvis, hips, and knees.

Exercises For The Quadriceps

 Leg extensions

The Hamstrings

 As your body moves forward, the action switches from the quads to the hamstrings.

The hamstrings span two joints—the hips and knee and are made up of four muscle-parts.

As pictured, these consist of:

  • The biceps femoris, (two parts: long head and short head).
  • The Semitendinosus, and
  • The Semimembranosus

Functions Of The Hamstrings

  • Initiating knee bending as your body moves forward
  • Flexing your knees, causing your feet to move back toward your butt. This helps provide power to propel you forward.
  • Assisting the extension of thighs by moving the upper leg backward.

Downsides of Weakness

As I mentioned earlier, a lot of runners have weaker and/or tighter hamstrings in comparison to the quadriceps.

What’s more, chronic hamstring inflexibility is also widespread in runners who have a sedentary lifestyle.

This can affect the efficiency of the kinetic chain at the hip and knee, increasing the risks of pain and injury.

For these reasons, if you’ve hamstrings limitations, you’re more like to suffer from:

(1) Hamstring strain and tears, which is caused by the muscle’s inability to withstand the load generated by the contracting quad.

(2) Limited running performance due to limited ROM and the diminished power from the knee extensors and hip flexors.

Exercises 

  • Deadlifts
  • Lying leg curls
  • Hamstring pushups
  • Dynamic stretches (think yoga)

The Gluteal

 “Wanna have a perky ass?

Train your glutes!”

Consisting of three overlapping muscles: the Gluteus Maximus, medius, and minimus, the glutes are located in the buttocks and are the main source of power when logging the miles.

Functions of The Glutes

  • Stabilizing your hips and legs.
  • Extending the hip, then straightening it beneath you.
  • Lateral hip rotation as you swing your leg to the outer part of your body.
  • Keeping your posture straight, and the trunk stable and upright.
  • Maintaining proper knee alignment while running.

 Downsides of Weakness

 Sitting for prolonged periods of time can tighten and weaken the glutes, causing bad posture and limiting power output.

This leads to excess stress on the lower back, knee pain, contributing to all sorts of running injuries.

For example, research of Div.

III collegiate athlete revealed that subjects who reported suffering from “patellofemoral pain”—the technical name for knee pain—had drastically weaker hip abductor and external rotator muscle of the affected limb.

Exercises 

  • Squats
  • Sumo squats
  • Walking lunges
  • Clamshells (resistance bands version)
  • Glute bridges

Hip Flexors

 The hip flexors are the muscles located on the front of the hip, just above the thighs.

Also known as the iliopsoas, every time you lift your leg for any movement, whether when walking, running, or doing any sort of leg lifting motion, the hip flexors are called up into action.

The hip flexors are made of two muscles: the iliacus and the psoas major.

The psoas major is the largest of the muscles, stretching from the  T-12 spinal vertebrae to the L5 spinal vertebrae and there it attaches to the femur—your thigh bone.

Functions of The Hip Flexors

  • Moving your legs forward and back while working in conjunction with the hamstrings and quads.
  • Stabilizing the hip joint.
  • Developing good running posture and form.
  • Maintaining a standing position (in conjunction with the muscles of the lower leg, core, neck, and shoulders).
  • Stabilizing the pelvic region while keeping the hips level.

 Downsides of Weakness

 Research conducted at Stanford University found that knee-pain prone runners had a relatively weaker hip strength when compared to injury-free runners.

The good news is, most of the injured runners were able to return to training following a six-week hip strengthening training program.

What’s more?

Weak iliopsoas are often blamed for hip pain.

So, if you have a history of hip pain, consider strengthening or stretching these muscles more frequently.

You can also consult a certified physician or a chiropractic specialist for more.

Exercises

  • Weighted hip extensions
  • Bridges
  • Runners lunges
  • Skaters squats
  • Pigeon
  • Seated butterfly stretch

Additional resource – Guide To BCAAs for Runners

The Calves

The calves are the muscles located on the back of the lower leg, below your knees.

They consist of:

  • Gastrocnemius (outer calf), forging the clear bulge beneath the skin and
  • Soleus (inner calf), which is the flat muscle lying underneath the gastrocnemius muscle.

The two calf muscles attach from the end of your femur to the Achilles Tendon, which inserts into the calcaneus, the heel bone.

Functions of The Calves:

  • Providing spring in your step as they help in pushing off the ground to move forward.
  • Extending and flexing each foot as you land and push off.
  • Providing movement around the ankle joint and the phalanges.
  • Maintaining balance and ankle flexion.
  • Reducing the shock impact.

 Downsides of Weakness

 According to research, calves weakness/dysfunction may contribute to a host of injuries, including calf strains, shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and even hip or hamstring issues.

For instance, weak calves can place excessive strain on the Achilles and damage the fibers that make up the tendon.

Painful?

Sure.

Exercises

  • Calf raises
  • Farmer’s walk on toes
  • Toe lunges
  • Jump rope
  • Dumbbell jump squat

The Peroneals

The peroneal consists of a group of muscles located in the lower leg bone, or the fibular—the reason they’re often referred to as the fibularis or fibular muscles.

The peronerals are made up of three muscles: the peroneus longus, brevis and tertius.

The longest and most superficial of these is attached near the head of the fibula then courses down most of this bone.

The functions of The Peroneals

  •  Assisting ankle movement.
  • Helping stabilize your big toe and ankle joint against the ground.
  •  Providing support when standing, whether on both legs or one.

Downside of Weakness

 Since these muscles support the movement of your foot, they’re prone to overuse.

Problems in these muscles may cause swelling and pain in the lower leg, ankle, or foot.

These may include:

  • Peroneal tendonitis, which is swelling and pain in the peroneal tendons caused by overuse, which later leads to tendinopathy.
  • Peroneus longus muscle strain, which is the overstretching of the peroneal muscle caused by a sudden or forceful movement of the foot.
  • Peroneal tendon subluxation or dislocation, which is the overstretching of the peroneal tendons when the foot is forcefully moved into dorsiflexion and inversion of the ankle.
  • Ankle sprain, everyone must be familiar with this already. This hurts the lateral ligament of your ankles and may damage your peroneal tendons depends on the grade severity.

Exercises  

  • Standing calf raises
  • Resistance bands exercises
  • Heel walks
  • Lunges

 Tensor Fascia Latae

The tensor fascia latae (TFL) refers to a thigh muscle that connects your pelvis to the iliotibial band (ITB), which is a knee-stabilizing band that stretches down the outside of the leg.

That’s why when you have a strong TFL, your knees will be better aligned as you push forward while running.

Functions of The Tensor Fascia Latae

  • Helping create medial rotation of the hip, but also helps with hip flexion and hip abduction.
  • Stabilizing the hips and pelvis as you raise up each leg.
  • Helping provide lateral—or side-to-side—stability to the knee.
  •  In conjunction with the gluteal muscles, the TFL helps ensure lateral stability around the hip as well as lateral stability around the knee.

 Downside of Weakness

 Thanks to overuse, the tensor fascia latae can get tight.

When this occurs, it can lead to knee pain and injury such as patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS), and even meniscus injuries.

Exercises

  • Hip Hitches
  • Side-lying straight leg raises
  • Crab walks
  • Single-leg squat
  • Static Standing TFL Stretch
  • Pigeon

Flexor Hallucis Brevis

The flexor hallucis brevis (FHB) is a tiny intrinsic muscle of the foot that lies deep within the sole on the medial aspect.

The FHB is divided in front into two sections, which are interested into the lateral and medial sides of the base of the great toe.

Your big toe is responsible for foot stability and it’s key in push-off.

Anything you can do to improve its function can help improve your running performance and avoid injury.

Functions of The Flexor Hallucis Brevis

  • Helping flex the great toe at the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP joints), especially at the toe-off phase of running gait.
  •  Helping keep the medial longitudinal arch of the foot

Downside of Weakness

When your hallux can’t bend enough, it forces the impact to go somewhere else, more likely, through tissues that aren’t designed to bear the load.

This can trigger a chain reaction of issues going up your leg—starting from tingling, sole discomfort, plantar fasciitis, Achilles injury to calf strains, and more.

Exercises

  • Toe Gripping
  • Resistance Band
  • Toe walks

Tibialis Anterior

The anterior tibialis is another less-common yet very important running muscle.

It consists of a muscle-tendon unit that stretches down the front of the shin, on the outside of the fibula—or the shin bone.

Functions of The Tibialis Anterior

  • Responsible for dorsiflexing your ankle—as in pulling your foot up towards your knee.
  • Helping position the foot to prepare for impact while your leg is still air-born.
  • Assisting in foot inversion

Downside of Weakness

A few problems can strike this muscle that may cause functional mobility issues. These may include

  • Shin splints
  • Anterior tibialis tendonitis
  • Sciatica (radiating) pain on the shin

Exercises

  •  Heel walks
  •  Toe raises
  • Single-leg hops

The Supporting Running Muscles

 If you have the slightest understanding of human anatomy and the biomechanics involved in moving from point A to point B, then you already realize that running isn’t just about your legs.

 As I mentioned earlier, running doesn’t just use your leg muscles.

It’s full bodywork.

The muscles of your upper body and the core are needed to keep good form, ensure movement efficiency, and help in forward motion.

Thoracic Diaphragm

 The diaphragm refers to the muscle that separates the abdomen from the chest cavity.

It consists of a fibromuscular structure that sits at the base of the chest and divides the abdominal organs from your lungs.

When you breathe, this muscle contracts and relaxes, pulling air into the lungs, then pushing it out.

That’s why this muscle is key for optimal lung capacity.

Since the diaphragm is the main breathing muscle, certain activities, such as running, can be painful if this muscle is not used to such intensity or already impaired in some capacity.

But whether logging the miles can actually cause diaphragmic injury is another question.

The Functions

  • On the inhale, the diaphragm contracts and depresses, pulling air into your lungs.
  • On the exhale, the diaphragm relaxes and pushes the carbon dioxide out, the build-up of which can trigger anxiety and breathlessness.
  • Increasing abdominal pressure to help your body get rid of urine, feces, and vomit.
  • Putting pressure on the esophagus to prevent acid reflux.

Downside of Weakness

Technically there’s no such thing as an overuse running injury of the diaphragm, but you can still hurt this muscle, especially in contact sports.

Contusions are caused by continuous and/or direct trauma to certain body parts, which damages the underlying muscle fibers without actually breaking tearing the skin.

That’s why to injure your diaphragm while running, you’d to run into a sharp object, fall hard on your side, experience some other type of traumatic accident.

Additional resource – Does running build muscles?

Exercises

 The best diaphragmic exercise, besides regular running, is to practice diaphragmatic breathing.

This helps you use the diaphragm the right way while breathing.

Check this YouTube Tutorial

In the gym, you can target this muscle by doing rotational lunges that help simulate running imbalances.

The Core Muscles

 Most of the core muscles, including the abs, paraspinal, pelvic floor, obliques, erector spinae, multifidus, diaphragm, and hip girdle muscle, are vital for a runner’s form.

You can have the strongest legs in the universe, but without a strong core, you won’t be able to put your legs’ strength into work.

 Furthermore, strength and stability in the core region can also protect your spine and lower back from the impact of running.

The Functions Of The Core

  • Maintaining balance and controlling joint movement.
  • Improving the energy transfer between your upper and lower body, helping your body work as one single unit.
  • Keeping you standing upright and avoiding an excessive forward lean that can put undue pressure on your lower back.

 Downside of Weakness

With a weak core, you’ll be unable to reap the above benefits, which can drastically hinder your running performance, and might even increase the risks of injury.

Exercises

  • Planks
  • Russian twists
  • Crunches
  • Kettlebell swings
  • Pilates

Upper Body Muscles

Though not targeted directly, several muscle groups in the upper body are used while running.

The most important ones include the muscles of the arms, chest, back, and shoulders.

Arms

Your arms help maintain a rhythmic motion that’s in tune with the lower body—key for efficient running—so strengthening them can improve form efficiency and balance.

To get more of the arm swing, bend your arms at the elbows and swing them back and forth during the running gait cycle.

Chest Muscles

What’s known as the pectorals, these consist of two large, and flat, muscles that course across the surface of your chest.

These help move your arms to cross your body and up and down as well other movements like adduction, flexion, and rotation.

This is why you should keep your chest up.

Biceps

Your biceps branchii, better known as the biceps, is key for maintaining a bent arm.

Strong biceps help you swing your arms back and forth with more power.

Shoulders

Tese are located above the elbows and allow you to flex your elbows and rotate your forearms, which help swing them back and forth to enhance balance and forward propulsion.

The Scalene Muscles

The scalene muscles consist of three pairs of neck muscles:: scalenus anterior, scalenus medius, and scalenus posterir.

These help tilt, flex, and rotate your neck, helping maintain good posture as you log the miles.

They also help with breathing by lifting up your ribs, especially when doing heavy exercise.

The Back

What’s known as the latissimus Dorsi, which is the triangular-shaped muscle stretching running across your back from your shoulders to the top of your glutes.

The main roles are to power arm movement, especially the backward swing and the downward pull, as well as keep your torso upright.

The other role is an extension and lateral flexion of the lumbar spine.

Exercises 

  • Pushups,
  • hammer curls,
  • bicep curls,
  • shoulder presses,
  • pull-ups,
  • kettlebell swings,

Note: Sure, a bulky, heavy, upper body will only slow you down. But to make the most of strength training, you won’t need to become a full-time strongman.

All you need is two to three 20 to 30 minutes of strength sessions per week.

Of course, feel free to do more, if that’s what you want.

Put it in your schedule as a part of your cross-training.

What muscles does running work – The Conclusion

There you have it.

Today’s short anatomy introduction into the main running muscles should help you start to better understand how your body moves as well as how to improve it.

Now that you know what muscles does running work, it’s up to you to take care of them.

The rest is just details, as the saying goes.

Please feel free to leave your comments and questions in the section below.

In the meantime, thank you for dropping by.

Strength Training Program for Runners

woman running in trail

If you’re really serious about improving your running performance, you’re in the perfect spot.

As runners, we often get caught up in piling on the miles—but hitting the pavement isn’t the full story.

Here’s the truth.

Adding strength training to your routine changes the game. It’s more than muscle—think fewer injuries, better running efficiency, and a faster path to your goals

What’s not to like, really!

Now, if you’re thinking, “Strength training? That sounds intense,” don’t worry!

No matter where you are in your strength training journey—total beginner or gym regular—I’m here to help

In this post, I’ll guide you through setting up a strength training regimen that complements your running, whether you’re a beginner or seasoned in the gym.

What Is Strength Training?

At its core, strength training is all about making your muscles work against resistance—weights, machines, or even your own body. And don’t worry, you don’t have to lift heavy weights to see results.

Did you know that simple bodyweight moves like push-ups and squats can build strength and stamina just as well—if not better—than traditional weight lifting?

And the benefits don’t stop there.

I’ll be honest: for the longest time, I was one of those runners who thought all you needed was running to get better at running.

If I wanted to improve, I figured I just needed to run more miles maybe throw in some speed work.

It seemed logical—run more, get better. But that approach left me nursing shin splints, knee pain, and tight hips all too often

After a few frustrating months, a friend—a much better, more seasoned runner—asked me a simple question: ‘Have you tried strength training?’

So I decided to give it a try.

I started small with bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and planks. To be honest, at first, it felt a little pointless. I was not holding any weights here, just doing these slow, controlled movements.

But, after a few weeks of consistency I started getting stronger. And that strength carried over to my miles.

Let me explain more why strength for runners matters and it matters a lot.

Why Should Runners Do Strength Training?

When I first integrated strength training into my routine, I was skeptical. I mean, I’m a runner, not a weightlifter, right?

But after just a few months of consistent bodyweight exercises, the difference was undeniable.

My runs felt easier, my body felt stronger, and those nagging injuries? They started disappearing.

Don’t take my word for it. Let me back this up with some science:

  • Improved Performance: A study published in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports found that runners who combined endurance and strength training improved their 10K times and running economy. Muscle strength also saw a big boost.
  • Better Running Economy: A study in the International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance showed that strength training improved running economy by 2.9% after six weeks. That’s a huge deal when it comes to running more efficiently.
  • Fix Muscle Imbalances: Strength training helps correct muscle imbalances, a common cause of overuse injuries. It can safeguard your body and keep you running strong.
  • Increased VO2 Max: A study in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that a 12-week strength program improved VO2 max by 5.7%. VO2 max measures your body’s ability to use oxygen, improving it helps your overall endurance.
  • No Bulking Up: Worried about bulking up? Don’t be. The right strength training plan will strengthen you without adding unwanted muscle mass.

Finding Balance Between Running and Strength Training

If you’re wondering how to fit strength training into your already-packed running schedule, don’t worry—it’s easier than you think.

First, focus on your goals. Do you want to correct muscle imbalances, improve your form, or prevent injury? Whatever it is, you can tailor your strength program to fit your needs. Just 20-30 minutes of strength work two or three times a week can make a difference.

I recommend giving your muscles 48 hours of rest between strength workouts to recover and grow stronger.

Figuring out how to balance running with strength training was a game-changer for me. Initially, I tried doing both on the same day, but I quickly learned that separating them gave me better results.

Now, I strength train on non-running days, and it’s made a world of difference in my energy levels and performance

Still hesitant? Here’s how to run after a strength workout.

Warm Up Before You Lift

Before jumping into your strength workout, warm up your muscles. A 10-minute warm-up of brisk walking, jogging, and dynamic stretches (like lunges or high knees) will prepare your body to lift. Remember to cool down and stretch—it’s key for flexibility and recovery.

The Importance of Proper Form

Proper form is crucial when it comes to strength training. It’s better to do fewer reps with perfect form than to rush through and risk injury. Bad form can lead to muscle imbalances and inefficient movement, which are not helpful in the long run.

And don’t take my word for it.

A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that proper form during squats increased muscle activation in the quadriceps, glutes, and hamstrings.

To build proper form, do the following:

  • Engage your core, stand tall, and head in a neutral position.
  • Focus on smooth, slow lifts and equally controlled descents.
  • Move slowly, ensuring you rely on muscles, not the moment, to do the lifting.
  • Protect your joints by gripping them properly.
  • Keep your body well-aligned and move smoothly through each exercise. Don’t use momentum to swing the weight around.
  • Keep your shoulders relaxed and down. Do not shrug. Avoid aligning your ears with your shoulders.
  • Exhale as you lift the weight and inhale as you lower it.

What’s more?

Consider hiring a personal trainer to teach you proper form from the get-go and learn how to properly complete each exercise. Investing in a few sessions with a personal trainer was one of the best decisions I made for my strength training journey. They corrected my posture, taught me how to engage my core properly, and showed me that quality trumps quantity every time.

Can’t afford one?

Study online videos and tutorials to learn proper lifting techniques—plenty of sources are around.

Running vs. Strength Training: Start Simple

Let’s talk about balancing your running and strength training.

As a beginner, focusing on two non-consecutive days of full-body strength training each week is best. Start with simple, equipment-free routines that target five key movement patterns: squatting, pushing, pulling, hinging, and core work.

Mastering these fundamental movements will help reduce your risk of injury and set the foundation for lifting heavier weights down the road.

Once comfortable, you can add resistance to deadlifts, glute bridges, reverse lunges, overhead presses, hammer curls, and chest presses. Don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar with the equipment—bodyweight exercises are the perfect stepping stone to strength training. Research shows they can be as effective as weights, especially for beginners or those without gym access.

As you get fitter, try introducing tools like TRX bands, resistance bands, kettlebells, barbells, and machines. And remember, it’s all about progression—start small and build up as you get stronger.

Running and Strength Training Schedule

If you’re new to strength training, you might wonder how to combine it with your running routine. Should you run first, then weight train, or lift the weight and hit the pavement?

My advice is simple: lift first, run later. During your first few months, prioritize your strength training routine to improve your technique and form and avoid getting distracted by fatigue from running. Once you’ve developed a solid foundation, you can switch up the order or perform both workouts on separate days.

Here’s a basic schedule that can help you make progress and avoid injury:

  • Monday: Interval run
  • Tuesday: Strength workout
  • Wednesday: Easy run
  • Thursday: Strength workout
  • Friday: Long run
  • Saturday: Strength workout
  • Sunday: Rest

Finding the Right Weight

When it’s time to add weights, start with a manageable weight and slowly build from there. If you swing the weights around or use momentum, the load is too heavy, and you need to scale back.

Ideally, your muscles should feel fatigued by the last couple of reps. If you’re breezing through, it’s time to increase the weight.

The right weight depends on the exercise. For example, with chest presses, ensure you can control the weight throughout the movement. If you rely on momentum to finish those last reps, go for a lighter weight.

The Range Reps

When it comes to the number of reps, keeping them low and the weight challenging enough is the way to go. Opt for a weight you cannot lift more than eight times and do at least three sets of five to eight repetitions per exercise.

Reps really do impact your results

Here is a quick overview of the number of reps and its impact on your strength results

  • The 2 to 5 range rep builds super dense muscle and strength.
  • The 6 to 12 rep range: This builds both muscular strength and muscular
  • The 12 rep range and above. Ideal for building endurance.

Beginner Strength Running Plan For Beginners

If you are just starting, take your training slowly and alternate between weight-lifting and running days.

According to a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, alternating between strength training and cardio on different days can result in better performance improvements than doing both on the same day.

Otherwise, you risk overtraining, which can lead to injury and slow your progress.

As a beginner, start with two strength workouts a week for three to four weeks, then add a third workout in month two.

Research shows that beginners can gain strength with just two weekly workouts.

Shoot for at least 20 to 30 minutes per session, then gradually add time and intensity until you’re lifting hard for 50 to 60 minutes a session.

A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that a longer duration of resistance exercise led to greater muscle hypertrophy, or growth, in untrained individuals.

The Concept of Training Split

To schedule your workouts the right way, you need first to determine what weight training split and weekly schedule to opt for.

If you’re familiar with strength training, you already know how splits work If not, then below is a simple explanation and description.

The most common and widely tested is the 3-day full body split. This is what I’d recommend any beginner. I cannot emphasize it enough.

Additional Resources

For further reading on the benefits of strength training for runners, check out these resources:

Share Your Strength Training Journey!

We want to hear from you! Your experiences with strength training can inspire and motivate fellow runners. Take a moment to share your thoughts in the comments below. Here are a few questions to get you started:

  • What strength exercises have you found most beneficial for your running?
  • How has strength training impacted your performance?
  • Do you have any tips for incorporating strength training into a busy schedule?

Your insights not only contribute to our running community but also help others who are navigating their own strength training journeys. Let’s learn from each other and build a supportive environment!

Run and Walk to Success: Unleash Your Potential with the Run-Walk Method

Run Walk Method

Are you a beginner runner struggling to build endurance? Or an experienced athlete looking to take your performance to the next level?

Either way, the Run Walk method might just be the answer you’ve been searching for.

This method was pioneered by Jeff Galloway, a former Olympian and renowned coach who has helped countless people get into running.

But what exactly is the Run Walk method? It’s a simple yet effective training strategy that involves mixing low-intensity running intervals with walking breaks.

By finding the right balance between running and walking, you can improve your fitness, build stamina, and reduce the risk of injury and burnout.

It’s time to lace up your shoes and give this method a try!

The Benefits of The Run-Walk Method for Beginners

Jeff Galloway, a former Olympian and renowned coach, pioneered the Run-Walk Method, which has helped over 200,000 runners and walkers improve their running performance. The method is simple: mixing low-intensity running intervals with walking breaks can improve performance and reduce the risk of injury.

For beginners, this method is particularly useful as it allows them to slowly build up their endurance without risking discomfort, injury, or burnout. And for those returning to running after a long hiatus, the walk/run sessions can help fortify slow-twitch muscle fibers and improve recovery time.

But don’t be fooled into thinking this method is only for beginners. Intermediate and advanced runners can also benefit from the Run-Walk Method. In fact, it can help them stay safe while nursing an injury and even improve their race times.

Don’t take my word for it.

A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that runners who used the run-walk method had similar improvements in running performance as those who completed a continuous run. The study also found that the run-walk method resulted in less muscle damage and inflammation, suggesting that it may be a useful tool for reducing the risk of injury.

Another study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine found that novice runners who used the run-walk method with a 3:1 ratio of running to walking had significantly lower levels of perceived exertion and muscle soreness than those who completed a continuous run. The study also found that the run-walk method led to similar improvements in running performance as continuous running.

The Downsides of the Walk Run Method

While the run-walk method has become increasingly popular among runners, it’s important to consider both the potential benefits and downsides before trying it.

One potential downside of the run-walk method is the risk of losing mental focus during the walking intervals. That’s why you might find it hard to get into running after stopping for a walk break. It’s like hitting a speed bump on the road – it interrupts your flow and can be jarring to your system. However, some runners find that the structured intervals of the run-walk method actually help break up the monotony of continuous running and can help keep them engaged throughout the workout.

Another potential downside of the run-walk method is the risk of slowing down the overall pace. This can be frustrating for runners who are used to maintaining a consistent pace throughout their runs.

However, studies have shown that the run-walk method can actually be an effective way to improve overall pace over time.

A study published in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport found that runners who used the run-walk method in a half marathon were able to maintain a faster pace overall compared to those who ran continuously. This is likely because the walking intervals help reduce fatigue and allow runners to recover more quickly between running intervals.

It’s also important to note that the run-walk method may not be suitable for everyone. For example, if you have a specific time goal for a race, the run-walk method may not be the best approach. In this case, continuous running may be a more effective strategy for achieving your goal.

Run Walk Ratio For Beginners

To make the most out of this method, take the walk breaks before fatigue starts to set in.

Contrary to popular belief, the walk/run method does not mean that you should take breaks only when tired.

Au contraire, it’s about taking a brief walk break even if you are not tired.

If you wait until you are completely drained, you might go over the red line, thus burning your engine before you are done working out.

To determine the appropriate run-walk ratio for your individual needs, consider factors such as your current fitness level and personal preferences. A study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine found that a run-walk ratio of 3 minutes running to 1-minute walking was more efficient and less taxing on the body than a continuous run for novice runners.

Here are three walk-to-running ratios to try out.

Choose whatever ratio of walking and running that works for you.

  • The Beginner: Run for 15 to 30 seconds. Then walk for one to two minutes
  • The Intermediate: Run for two to five minutes. Then walk for one to two minutes.
  • The Experienced: Run for eight to ten minutes. Then walk for 30 seconds to one full minute.

As you become more comfortable with the run-walk method, you can progress the ratio over time, like a gardener tending to a plant and allowing it to grow and blossom. A gradual increase in the amount of running and a decrease in the amount of walking can help build endurance and improve overall running performance.

Additional resource – How long does it take to walk a mile

Progressing the run-walk ratio over time:

As you become more comfortable with the run-walk method and your fitness level improves, you can gradually progress the run-walk ratio to challenge your body and continue improving. This may involve increasing the amount of time you spend running while decreasing the amount of time you spend walking or experimenting with different ratios to find the one that works best for you.

A general rule of thumb is to increase the running time by no more than 10% per week while also reducing the walking time by a corresponding amount. For example, if you start with a 1:1 ratio and run for one minute and walk for one minute, you might progress to a 2:1 ratio, running for two minutes and walking for one minute.

It’s important to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed, especially if you experience any pain or discomfort. Gradual progression is key to avoiding injury and getting the most out of the run-walk method over the long term.

Go For Time, Not Distance

So do you make the most out of the run walk method?

Simple. The key is to focus on time, not distance. Instead of feeling pressure to cover a specific distance at a certain pace, measure your walk and run segments in terms of minutes. This takes the pressure off and allows you to focus on improving your endurance and stamina.

The Ideal Session

For an ideal session, start with a 5-minute warm-up walk, then begin an easy run/walk routine, alternating between jogging slowly for 1 minute and walking for 2-3 minutes for recovery. Make sure to fully recover during the walk segments before beginning again. Repeat the cycle 5-7 times and end with a proper cool-down.

Additional resource – How long does it take to walk five miles

The Run Walk Run Method  for Beginners

If you’re a beginner, assess your fitness level and set realistic targets. For example, aim to run a 5K (3.1 miles) within 8-12 weeks of beginning your training. As you progress, increase your training volume, intensity, and frequency. And remember, consistency is key. By following this method consistently, you’ll be able to improve your endurance, reduce the risk of injury, and eventually run longer and faster than you ever thought possible.

Applying The Method

To incorporate the run-walk method into your training program, start with a few run-walk workouts per week and gradually increase the number of continuous runs over time like a sculptor gradually chiseling away at a block of marble to reveal a beautiful statue.

It’s also important to listen to your body and adjust your training program as needed, like a musician tuning their instrument to produce the best sound.

If you’re feeling fatigued or experiencing pain, it may be time to decrease the overall volume or intensity of your workouts, while if you’re feeling strong and making progress, you can gradually increase the volume and intensity of your workouts.

With patience and persistence, the run-walk method can be a valuable tool for improving your running performance and achieving your fitness goal.

Training Plans

The Internet is full of elaborate training programs, but I believe in keeping it simple.

Here are more tips for a great training plan:

  • Aim to exercise at least three times per week.
  • Walk, run/walk, or run for 20 to 30 minutes, three days a week.
  • Cross train or rest on your off days.
  • Keep your workouts at a conversational pace. AKA the Talk Test.

Stay In Your Lane

Remember, the key to injury-free training is staying within your fitness level. No more, no less. The Internet may be full of elaborate training programs, but keeping it simple is often the best approach. So, grab your running shoes, check the temperature, and get ready to hit the pavement with the run walk run method. Your running journey starts here!

The Run Walk Method – The Conclusion

And there you have it, my friends!

If you’re itching to dive into the world of running for the very first time, let me tell you, the run walk run method is your golden ticket. It’s the ultimate gateway to unleashing your inner runner, and the best part? The rest is just minor details. Trust me, you’ve got this!

Thank you so much for joining me on this exciting journey. Remember, when it comes to your training, keep pushing yourself and staying motivated. You’re capable of incredible things!

Wishing you endless miles of exhilarating runs and unforgettable adventures,

David D.