23/02/2021
Paceline offers strength training for endurance athletes. Give us a shout so we can help you be your best!!!
Endurance athletes tend to steer clear of strength training for many reasons.
1 - They train specifically for the thing they aim to compete in which makes sense
2 - Training for 3 sports simultaneously is hard enough, so to add in extra strength sessions can be a challenge
3 - They fear weight gain and whilst muscle is not easy to build there is a worry that they could end up bulky
4 - Programming training which can make you sore means you may find it harder to run/swim/bike the next day.
BUT hear is why you should consider it:
1 - injury prevention. Extra strength means a more robust body and in a sport where repetiton is necessary it is important to add some balance to areas which otherwise do not get worked.
2 - Lifting heavy weights for low reps has been shown to compliment endurance sport, partly because of the reduced DOMS heavy weights give. Partly because heavy weights don’t build muscle in the same way and party because of improved running/cycling and swimming economy.
3 - Improved body composition - muscle wastage is a real thing for endurance athletes especially when combined with a non optional diet. This can lead to a “skinny fat” look which can be frustrating when you are able to perform well but don’t look like it.
4 - Variety - adding in different stimulus throughout the year keeps things fresh and you interested.
5 - Your neighbours look on in awe whilst you deadlift topless in February and your kid mocks you in the window behind you - In essence providing entertainment in an otherwise dreary world!!
Learn the right technique and then lift BIG - Reps of 3-5 for 3-5 sets covering the big movements like Deadlifts, Squats, Presses and Chins - then like me, if you are little bit vain, add in a few curls for the girls at the end.