The Truth Behind Strength Training for Marathons

Every time I enter a gym, I witness firsthand the mistakes people make while lifting. Arched back, cheating with momentum, ......the list goes on.

I've encountered "endurance" athletes in the gym and observe their selection of exercises and technique. I know they're endurance athletes because they have that skinny runner's build and are walking advertisements for Asics or the latest marathon or triathlon held in the area.

Let me pose a question, and I'm going to be frank. How do bench press, curls, tricep press downs, and leg press help in running a marathon? Newsflash.....it doesn't. If anything it can inhibit marathon performance.

So what exercises should a runner do? Hold onto your seats and I'll fill you in later.

Best,

Norman Eng, DC, CSCS