Does running build leg muscle?
A running coach answers the question and breaks down all the variables to keep in mind.
Im an Exercise PhysiologistHeres Why You Shouldnt Worry About Cortisol Spikes When You Do HIIT Workouts.
Elliptical vs Treadmill: Which Cardio Machine Is Right For You?
Does Rowing Count as Strength Training?
Heres What Experts Had to Say
Even if youre not a runner yourself (yet!
a USATF level 2 certified running coach and founder ofThe Running Center
), you probably have a friend, family member, or coworker who runs.
But, is running enough tobuildleg muscle?
What happens if you want to swap leg day in the gym for a run?
Will your legs still get strong?
How does running compare to resistance training?
Although running does strengthen the muscles, its not necessarily the best way tobuildleg muscle.
Its important to strengthen opposing muscles in synergy with each other, she explains.
If youre wondering if just running will make you strong enough, the answer depends on your goal.
In other words, strong enough forwhat?
a USATF level 2 certified running coach and founder ofThe Running Center
Strong enough to run a marathon?
Strong enough to squat 100 pounds?
Strong enough to safely perform everyday activities?
Will running alone strengthen your legs?
Does Dancing Count as Cardio?
Heres What Experts Say
Glute Bridge vs Hip Thrust: Which Is The Better Booty Booster?
Im a Master TrainerHeres Why You Shouldnt Skip Your Post-Run Stretches.
The key in ofrunning workoutsyou do will also influence whether your training will primarily increase muscular endurance or strength/power.
(Heres exactly whysprinting builds muscle.)
Your strength workouts dont even have to be particularly intense.
For example, Solkin createdRunditioningTM, a strength and conditioning exercise program for runners.
FAQ
Does running work every leg muscle?
Running works every major muscle in your legs, according toHone Health.
How long should I run to see leg-building results?
Is running enough for a legs workout?
The answer to this question depends on your goals and what you define to be enough.
These include running faster, running farther, and preventing injury.
Effects of Strength Training on the Physiological Determinants of Middle- and Long-Distance Running Performance: A Systematic Review.
2018 May;48(5):1117-1149. doi: 10.1007/s40279-017-0835-7.
PMID: 29249083; PMCID: PMC5889786.
Rnnestad BR, Mujika I. Optimizing strength training for running and cycling endurance performance: A review.
Scand J Med Sci Sports.
2014 Aug;24(4):603-12. doi: 10.1111/sms.12104.
Epub 2013 Aug 5.
Konopka AR, Harber MP.
Skeletal muscle hypertrophy after aerobic exercise training.
Exerc Sport Sci Rev.
2014 Apr;42(2):53-61. doi: 10.1249/JES.0000000000000007.
PMID: 24508740; PMCID: PMC4523889.
…
Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.
