Best running exercises: how to improve your running technique
Written by: R2B Store
Without additional exercises your technique may deteriorate. Your body will also be less able to absorb the load.
By adding targeted exercises you will improve your strength , stability and running efficiency . This will not only help you become faster , but also prevent injuries .
In this blog you will discover what really works. And how to cleverly combine these exercises with your running training.
Why Exercises Are Important for Runners
Running demands a lot from the body. That's why strength training is essential for runners.
The best exercises help to better support your body while walking. By adding the following exercises you will not only train your fitness but also your stability.
Why These Awesome Exercises Work:
Strengthen legs, core and hips
Improve posture and running technique
Reduce the risk of overload
Providing greater control and efficiency
These great exercises will make running stronger, more stable and more sustainable.
Combine exercises with running for a full body workout
Exercises work best when they're part of a consistent structure. Runners can do them on days they're not running, or after a light workout. Don't view exercises as standalone additions, but as support for your running routine. By combining strength training and stability training within a clear plan, you prevent every workout from becoming too intense. This way, you build up in a targeted and controlled manner.
Warm-up exercises before running
A good warm-up is essential. It prepares your body for the impact of running .
Dynamic movements increase blood circulation. At the same time, you activate the muscles you use while walking.
This reduces the risk of injuries. It also helps to prevent stiff muscles .
A warm-up doesn't have to take long. But he must be goal-oriented .
Core & stability exercises for runners
A strong core keeps you upright. Even when fatigue strikes.
Without sufficient stability in your torso, you lose energy with every step. That makes running harder than necessary.
Exercises like planks and balance exercises provide more control. They reduce lateral movements while walking.
The result: A more efficient running style and less strain on your lower back .
That's why core training is essential for every runner.
Strength training for legs and hips
Your legs provide the propulsion. Your hips provide stability while running.
By specifically training these muscle groups, you improve your push-off and control. This makes every step more powerful and efficient .
Exercises like lunges , squats and step-ups strengthen multiple muscle groups at once. This allows you to continue walking in a controlled manner , even when fatigue sets in.
Strong legs make the difference. Between persevering and collapsing .
Plyometric and explosive exercises
Explosive exercises make you faster. And above all: more powerful .
They train your muscles to produce force quickly . This is essential for a smooth transition .
In addition, plyometrics improves your coordination and running economy . You move more efficiently and waste less energy.
NB: These exercises are especially suitable if you already have a basic level of fitness .
Use them sparingly . And always with good technique .
Cooling down & recovery after running
Recovery begins immediately after running. Your body needs time to recover.
A cool-down helps to gradually lower your heart rate . It also prevents stiffness in muscles.
By walking gently and doing light stretching exercises , you support recovery. This is how you prepare your body for the next workout.
The result: Better performance on your next running workout.
Practice plan per level
Beginners should start with bodyweight exercises and focus on technique. Intermediate runners can add extra repetitions or resistance. Experienced runners combine strength training with explosive exercises for increased speed. By adjusting the level to your experience, training remains effective and safe. This way, your strength will grow along with your running goals.
“Strong running doesn’t start with training faster, but with training smarter.”
R2B tip
Frequently Asked Questions
Which exercise is best for running?
The best exercises for runners are a combination of strength exercises, core stability exercises, and a good warm-up. Think squats, lunges, and calf raises to strengthen your legs, glutes, and calves. For a stronger core, exercises like the plank (where you're in a push-up position with a straight line from your shoulders to your heels) and the single-leg deadlift are very effective. These different exercises together improve running technique, improve balance, and help prevent injuries like shin splints, especially for beginning runners.
When should I do these exercises: before or after running?
Always warm up with dynamic exercises before running. Exercises like knee raises and heel-glute squats get your body moving and help keep it flexible. Strength training and other more intense exercises, such as jump squats or single-leg exercises, are best performed after a gentle workout or on a separate day. This allows you to perform each exercise with a straight back, an upright torso, and avoid straining your knees and hips.
How often should I do strength and stability exercises besides running?
For most runners, strength training once or twice a week is sufficient. By training unilaterally, such as with a single-leg deadlift where you alternate between your left and right legs, you develop greater stability and correct the misalignment between your other leg. These types of effective exercises improve your posture, strengthen your abs and back, and contribute to faster running in the long run. This way, you build strength and endurance in a controlled and gradual manner.
Which exercises and training methods help runners stay stronger, faster and injury-free?
Runners become stronger and more efficient by combining strength training, technique, and tempo training . The key components at a glance:
Strength and stability exercises
Squats, lunges and step-ups for strong legs, glutes and hamstrings
Calf raises for a powerful push-off and strong calves
Core exercises such as planks and leg raises for stability and a strong torso
Unilateral exercises such as single-leg deadlifts for balance and symmetry
Technique and running exercises
Speed skaters and ladder exercises for coordination and foot placement
Knee lifts (skipping) and heel-buttock walk for an active running style
Acceleration runs (accelerations) for control over speed and pace
Tempo shapes and power stimuli
Hill sprints for explosive power in legs and core
Tempo running at a comfortably difficult pace
Fartlek for a playful alternation between fast and quiet sections
How often to apply
Do strength and technique exercises 1–2 times per week
Preferably plan them on quiet running days
Adjust the intensity to your level and gradually push your limits
By cleverly combining these components, you will improve your running technique, endurance and significantly reduce the risk of injuries.