Did you know that strength training could improve your performance in endurance activities like hiking, biking, and running, in addition to improving injury prevention? Recreational athletes are sometimes hesitant to include consistent strength training in their workouts for fear of getting “bulky” or being too sore from lifting weights to perform well the next day.
On the contrary, studies have shown a strong correlation between strength training and improved performance, as well as injury prevention. Our joints already handle significant impact in everyday life, but with the added factors of elevation gain and uneven terrain, the impact becomes more significant. Your joints and muscles must be trained specifically to tolerate surprises along the trails, in addition to repetitive impact.
During activities like running and hiking, impact occurs alternately on single legs, requiring strength exercises that mimic these actions. Training glutes, quads, and hips improves an athlete’s efficiency in hill descents and enables them to feel stronger during climbs.
If you’re looking for a strength program that will train your body to handle Colorado’s best summer activities, Strong for the Trails, an 8-week small group strength training program, begins May 7 at 5 p.m. at the CU Anschutz Health and Wellness Center.
Members: Sign up through the app
Non-Members: Sign up at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/strong-for-the-trails-tickets-882153343397
June 28, 2024