Core Training For Runners – Run Away From Bad Advice

The core is key to running form. It provides power transfer, stability and injury prevention. We'll show you how to build a core strength training programme for running.

Core Training For Runners – Run Away From Bad Advice

Core Training For Runners – Run Away From Bad Advice

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Somehow, the term ‘core training' has become an umbrella term for a one-size-fits-all prescription of exercises, with little real thought or consideration for what we're actually training the core for. Read a core training for runners programme and you'll see the same re-hashed series of exercises, most of which don't bear the slightest resemblance to runners and the demands placed on the core by running.

A bodybuilder wouldn't train his legs the same way a runner would, so why do we assume that when it comes to core training for runners, we should repeat the same few exercises that other sportsmen and women use?

The difference between ‘exercise' and ‘training' is simple. Exercise is activity for enjoyment and health promotion. Training is performing activity with the purpose of becoming better at a particular skill, event, or activity. That's why not all running programmes are the same – you train for a Tough Mudder differently to how you'd train for a marathon, for example.

Core training for runners means building a particular core strength that is ideal for running. One that allows you to maintain form, prevent injury and improve performance during a run. We can break down the running stride, look at the demands of the sport and then build a programme that helps the runner improve their training and in turn, improve their running.

This article on core training for runners will hopefully change the way you think about your core training.

Time to read: 8 minutes

Key Points:

  • Why core strength is so important to runners
  • Body anatomy of running
  • Detailed regime for core strength training
  • Exercise video tuition

The core is key to running form. It provides power transfer, stability and injury prevention. We'll show you how to build a core strength training programme for running.

Defining the ‘Core'

Before we go any further, we have to define exactly what the core is. If we're going to be talking about core training for runners, it's handy if we're all on the same page.

The core is effectively the musculature that comprises of the deep and superficial abdominals (abs are multi-layered, not just the surface six-pack), the lower and mid back, and the hips/pelvis. When we refer to the core, we're referring to this muscle group. Think of it as the power link between the upper and lower body.

It provides power transfer, stability and injury prevention during movement, hence why it's so important to an active population. A weak core can lead to all kinds of problems from an injury or performance point of view.

Core Involvement in Running

The reality is, as much as some coaches would like to espouse the virtues of ‘perfect' running form, such a thing doesn't exist. The human body isn't built to a standard blueprint – we have different lever lengths, tendon elasticity, biomechanics, hip alignment etc. What we can strive for is our own version of perfect form.

The core is key to running form. Excess rotation of the torso can lead to power and propulsion leaks, as well as early-onset fatigue. A weak core limits the force generation from the hip and knee drive. Core instability also increases the possibility of injuries to the hips, lower back and (thanks to the knock-on effect), knees.

It's not unfair to suggest that your core training should be one of the fundamental pillars on which your training is built upon, such is its importance.

Why Core Training for Runners is Different…

Running for a long time (even a short as 5km) places different demands on the torso. In any team sport, you're never repeating the same running pattern for more than a few metres at a time. In a 5km run, you're repeating the same movements time and again. The further you run, the more you repeat the same movement patterns.

When we run, there are four major issues the core and torso have to deal with…

  • Weight transfer from one leg to the other
  • Rotation of the torso and hips
  • Impact protection
  • Maintaining an upright posture

We'll address each of these movements one at a time and I'll show you an exercise that helps to build a running-specific core strength.

Weight Transfer From Side to Side

A running programme should include single-leg strength training exercises, helping with impact protection and strengthening work for the limbs. The core suffers a similar issue in running, because there's a weight transfer from side to side.

The Alternating Single Leg Plank is a way of isolating individual sides, making them stronger and more able to resist running impact. Aim for 4 sets of 30 seconds per leg.

Rotation of the Torso and Hips

During the running gait, the torso will naturally rotate. We want to prevent this, so should focus on anti-rotation exercises. Here are a couple of exercises that will really help to prevent over-rotation of the torso…

The Pallof Press is a fantastic anti-rotation exercise. Watch the video below and see the form. Remember, you want the band under a lot of tension – it should be pulled tight, otherwise it's easy! The band will pull you in the direction of its anchor point, whereas it's your job to resist it. Aim for 3 sets of 12 per side.

Barbell Rotations are another great anti-rotation exercise. The weight of the barbell will naturally pull you into a rotation, but use your core to stay upright, resisting the rotation. In the video below (ignore the wobbly camera work), pay attention to the upright torso of the lifter throughout the movement, even when the weight is at the bottom the rotation of either side. Aim for 3 sets of 10 per side.

Impact Protection

Do me a favour. Stand up and push your fingers into the muscles that run either side of your spine in the middle of your back. Keeping your fingers pushed into these muscles, walk around for 10-20 steps. Notice what happens – those muscles switch on and contract with each step, don't they?

That's walking. Imagine increasing the force by a factor of 8 (which is what happens when you run) and performing anywhere from 3,000 to 40,000 steps.

Every single core programme for runners will mention planks etc, but NOBODY mentions the importance of strengthening the back. That's why, ladies and gentlemen, so many core programmes for runners are ineffective and leave runners with a bad back. They ignore one of the most important elements of core training!

KYMIRA core programmes won't neglect the back. Not on my watch!

Here's a couple of exercises you won't see in my core training for runner's programmes, but I promise you they're effective.

Single Leg Romanian Deadlifts combine the single-leg and back strengthening elements with the balance and stability elements that help efficient running. They're a great exercise for runners, so make them a fundamental aspect of your core training. Perform 4 sets of 10 per side.

Single Arm Kettlebell Swings are another great exercise for runners. They strengthen the glutes, hamstrings, lower back, they activate the calves and train muscles eccentrically. There's an anti-rotation element for the back and core. They're a Jack-of-all-trades and another fundamental strength exercise all runners should perform. Aim for 4 sets of 15 per side.

Maintaining an Upright Posture

Towards the end of a run, when we're getting tired and form is breaking down, one of the common issues is a forward-lean with the torso. The way to correct this is to strengthen the core and the back.

The Barbell Front Squat that does this, whilst also training the legs. By placing the weight at the front, the torso is naturally pulled forward. The body learns to resist this by strengthening the core and upper back, maintaining an upright posture. Perform 3 sets of 15.

The Full Core Training for Runners Programme

Here's the full workout for you, without the descriptions…

  • Alternating Single Leg Plank: 4 x 30 seconds per side
  • Pallof Press: 3 x 12 per side
  • Barbell Rotations: 3 x 10 per side
  • Single Leg Romanian Deadlifts: 4 x 10 per side
  • Single Arm Kettlebell Swings: 4 x 15 per side
  • Barbell Front Squat: 3 x 15

Perform this workout twice per week and you'll build a core that will propel your running forward and reduce your injury risk significantly.

Unconventional Core Training for Runners: Concluded

I appreciate there's a lot in this article that is unconventional and challenges standard practice when it comes to core training, but I hope that given my break down and explanations as to why each exercise is in the programme make sense and push you to look at how you train this incredibly important body part.

Regardless of how far you run, whether you're a Park Runner, a Marathoner or just run around playing 6 a-side football, a strong core is a huge advantage. Take the lessons learned in this article and apply it to your own training.

For more informative training articles, visit our blog here .

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That’s why not all running programmes are the same – you train for a Tough Mudder differently to how you’d train for a marathon, for example.\nCore training for runners means building a particular core strength that is ideal for running. One that allows you to maintain form, prevent injury and improve performance during a run. We can break down the running stride, look at the demands of the sport and then build a programme that helps the runner improve their training and in turn, improve their running.\nThis article on core training for runners will hopefully change the way you think about your core training.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTime to read: 8 minutes\nKey Points:\n\nWhy core strength is so important to runners\nBody anatomy of running\nDetailed regime for core strength training\nExercise video tuition\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe core is key to running form. It provides power transfer, stability and injury prevention. We'll show you how to build a core strength training programme for running.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDefining the ‘Core’\nBefore we go any further, we have to define exactly what the core is. If we’re going to be talking about core training for runners, it’s handy if we’re all on the same page.\nThe core is effectively the musculature that comprises of the deep and superficial abdominals (abs are multi-layered, not just the surface six-pack), the lower and mid back, and the hips\/pelvis. When we refer to the core, we’re referring to this muscle group. Think of it as the power link between the upper and lower body.\nIt provides power transfer, stability and injury prevention during movement, hence why it’s so important to an active population. A weak core can lead to all kinds of problems from an injury or performance point of view.\n\nCore Involvement in Running\nThe reality is, as much as some coaches would like to espouse the virtues of ‘perfect’ running form, such a thing doesn’t exist. The human body isn’t built to a standard blueprint – we have different lever lengths, tendon elasticity, biomechanics, hip alignment etc. What we can strive for is our own version of perfect form.\nThe core is key to running form. Excess rotation of the torso can lead to power and propulsion leaks, as well as early-onset fatigue. A weak core limits the force generation from the hip and knee drive. Core instability also increases the possibility of injuries to the hips, lower back and (thanks to the knock-on effect), knees.\nIt’s not unfair to suggest that your core training should be one of the fundamental pillars on which your training is built upon, such is its importance.\n\nWhy Core Training for Runners is Different…\nRunning for a long time (even a short as 5km) places different demands on the torso. In any team sport, you’re never repeating the same running pattern for more than a few metres at a time. In a 5km run, you’re repeating the same movements time and again. The further you run, the more you repeat the same movement patterns.\nWhen we run, there are four major issues the core and torso have to deal with…\n\nWeight transfer from one leg to the other\nRotation of the torso and hips\nImpact protection\nMaintaining an upright posture\n\nWe’ll address each of these movements one at a time and I’ll show you an exercise that helps to build a running-specific core strength.\n\nWeight Transfer From Side to Side\nA running programme should include single-leg strength training exercises, helping with impact protection and strengthening work for the limbs. The core suffers a similar issue in running, because there’s a weight transfer from side to side.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Alternating Single Leg Plank is a way of isolating individual sides, making them stronger and more able to resist running impact. Aim for 4 sets of 30 seconds per leg.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRotation of the Torso and Hips\nDuring the running gait, the torso will naturally rotate. We want to prevent this, so should focus on anti-rotation exercises. Here are a couple of exercises that will really help to prevent over-rotation of the torso…\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Pallof Press is a fantastic anti-rotation exercise. Watch the video below and see the form. Remember, you want the band under a lot of tension – it should be pulled tight, otherwise it’s easy! The band will pull you in the direction of its anchor point, whereas it’s your job to resist it. Aim for 3 sets of 12 per side.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBarbell Rotations are another great anti-rotation exercise. The weight of the barbell will naturally pull you into a rotation, but use your core to stay upright, resisting the rotation. In the video below (ignore the wobbly camera work), pay attention to the upright torso of the lifter throughout the movement, even when the weight is at the bottom the rotation of either side. Aim for 3 sets of 10 per side.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImpact Protection\nDo me a favour. Stand up and push your fingers into the muscles that run either side of your spine in the middle of your back. Keeping your fingers pushed into these muscles, walk around for 10-20 steps. Notice what happens – those muscles switch on and contract with each step, don’t they?\nThat’s walking. Imagine increasing the force by a factor of 8 (which is what happens when you run) and performing anywhere from 3,000 to 40,000 steps.\nEvery single core programme for runners will mention planks etc, but NOBODY mentions the importance of strengthening the back. That’s why, ladies and gentlemen, so many core programmes for runners are ineffective and leave runners with a bad back. They ignore one of the most important elements of core training!\nKYMIRA core programmes won’t neglect the back. Not on my watch!\nHere’s a couple of exercises you won’t see in my core training for runner’s programmes, but I promise you they’re effective.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSingle Leg Romanian Deadlifts combine the single-leg and back strengthening elements with the balance and stability elements that help efficient running. They’re a great exercise for runners, so make them a fundamental aspect of your core training. Perform 4 sets of 10 per side.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSingle Arm Kettlebell Swings are another great exercise for runners. They strengthen the glutes, hamstrings, lower back, they activate the calves and train muscles eccentrically. There’s an anti-rotation element for the back and core. They’re a Jack-of-all-trades and another fundamental strength exercise all runners should perform. Aim for 4 sets of 15 per side.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMaintaining an Upright Posture\nTowards the end of a run, when we’re getting tired and form is breaking down, one of the common issues is a forward-lean with the torso. The way to correct this is to strengthen the core and the back.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Barbell Front Squat that does this, whilst also training the legs. By placing the weight at the front, the torso is naturally pulled forward. The body learns to resist this by strengthening the core and upper back, maintaining an upright posture. Perform 3 sets of 15.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Full Core Training for Runners Programme\nHere’s the full workout for you, without the descriptions…\n\nAlternating Single Leg Plank: 4 x 30 seconds per side\nPallof Press: 3 x 12 per side\nBarbell Rotations: 3 x 10 per side\nSingle Leg Romanian Deadlifts: 4 x 10 per side\nSingle Arm Kettlebell Swings: 4 x 15 per side\nBarbell Front Squat: 3 x 15\n\nPerform this workout twice per week and you’ll build a core that will propel your running forward and reduce your injury risk significantly.\n\nUnconventional Core Training for Runners: Concluded\nI appreciate there’s a lot in this article that is unconventional and challenges standard practice when it comes to core training, but I hope that given my break down and explanations as to why each exercise is in the programme make sense and push you to look at how you train this incredibly important body part.\nRegardless of how far you run, whether you’re a Park Runner, a Marathoner or just run around playing 6 a-side football, a strong core is a huge advantage. Take the lessons learned in this article and apply it to your own training.\nFor more informative training articles, visit our blog here.\n\n\n\n\n", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https:\/\/kymira.com" }, "headline": "Core Training For Runners – Run Away From Bad Advice", "description": "The core is key to running form. It provides power transfer, stability and injury prevention. We'll show you how to build a core strength training programme for running.", "image": [ "https:\/\/kymira.com\/cdn\/shop\/articles\/unnamed_b109b264-0708-4854-be6d-b55a1beb3c18.jpg?v=1667507289\u0026width=1758" ], "datePublished": "2020-05-12T18:53:20Z", "dateCreated": "2022-11-03T20:21:53Z", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Stephen Hoyles" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "KYMIRA" } }