Work Your Core

Running doesn’t always result in a six pack, so for those striving for a six pack or for a stronger core, perform these core exercises after an easy to moderate paced run to strengthen and tone your core, speed up your metabolism, and shorten your recovery time.  

Day 3

It is not the fear of losing fitness or speed that keeps me from taking a breaks.  Running is simply a part of who I am.  I love running everyday.  My training plans include zero days off.  However, I need to begin marathon training fresh and well rested, so my week off lives on…

Tuesday’s Top Three Core Exercises

Having a strong core helps runners maintain proper running form, and maintaining proper running form can improve performance and prevent injuries. 

#1 Reverse Crunch

What you need- a yoga mat or soft surface and a weight (advanced)

Lie on your back with your feet flat on the ground and your knees bent.  Using your lower abdominals lift your hips off the ground, bring your knees to your chest.  Slowly bring your feet back to the mat.  Going slow is the key.  Do 2-3 sets of 12.

Tuesday’s Top Three Exercises for Strength and Stability

When I injured my hip flexor in November , I discovered that I had extreme weakness in my uninjured hip.  I used the following exercises to correct this imbalance, and I use them now for injury prevention.  If you are recovering from an injury do not fight through the pain to complete these exercises.  If there is pain, stop.