What is strength training?
Strength training (also known as resistance training) is a type of exercise that causes the muscles to contract against an outside resistance. This can be from bodyweight, weight machines, free weights or resistance bands to name a few.
What is endurance?
Endurance refers to the body's ability to sustain exercise for an extended period of time. There are two main components which are cardiovascular endurance and muscular endurance. Cardiovascular endurance is the efficiency of the heart and lungs to fuel the body with oxygen.
It is important at this stage to understand that endurance can be improved with strength training. This helps increase performance in endurance activities by improving economy. Running economy is a term used to describe the amount of oxygen our bodies use when we run at a given intensity or speed.
Strength Exercises
Bulgarian split squat
Improving single leg strength is vital for building strength for endurance activities.
Regression - Goblet Squat, Split squat
Progression - Include weight such as a dumbbell or barbell.
Pro Tip - Try not to lean over your front knee and keep body upright.
Deadlift
Deadlift focusses more on the posterior chain of the legs such as the hamstrings and glutes often neglected in sports.
Regression - Kettle bell Deadlift is much better for beginners and those new to strength training as it requires less form and technique.
Progression - Kettle bell Swing or Barbell clean
Pro tip - Shins shouldn't be too far in front of the bar unless you have long legs. Back should be in a neutral position. Hips should be just above the knees and shoulders above the bar.
Dumbbell Press
It is always important to use strength sessions to focus on muscle movements and groups which aren't used in your chosen activity or sport. Even for running a small amount of upper body strength will benefit performance and reduce the chance of injury.
Sport Specifc
Sport specific strength training is the most important aspect of any training plan. This allows you to target muscles and movement patterns used in your activity.
It also allows you to measure goals and improvement and help to add progression into your training.
Additional Benefits of Strength & Conditioning
Mobility is flexibility and strength; It is hugely beneficial for helping to prevent injury, improving range of motion and increasing strength. Mobility should be a primary focus for any endurance athlete when training for long sessions which can cause repetitive strains, muscle imbalances and injuries.
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