Happy Tuesday! It’s time for another edition of Tuesday Topics. This week’s Tuesday Topic: What type of strength training do you do? You can write about this or any running related blog post. Remember to link-up with Kim and Zenaida and the bottom of this post!
I’m a huge advocate for incorporating strength training into your weekly workouts. I’ve said this before but I actually enjoy strength training more than running. I love feeling the burn of lifting that last set of weights and I love feeling strong. 2020 has been an odd year for multiple reasons, including going down as the one year that I didn’t run any races. I was scheduled to run a St. Patrick’s Day 5K, my first race of the year, but of course that was in mid-March so it was cancelled. I also don’t anticipate running any real races this year (except maybe a local Turkey Trot). Since I’m not focusing on training for any races, I’ve spent more time doing cycle and strength training. Not only do I feel stronger, but my body has changed as well. I try to incorporate strength training 4-6x a week and here’s how I do it.
Peloton Bootcamp Classes
Peloton Bootcamp classes are my favorite way to get in a mix of cardio and strength training. I started doing these classes more frequently around March as I found them to be a great replacement for my Orangetheory Fitness classes. Typically I prefer to take 60 minute bootcamp classes (#saturday60) since it equals around 30 minutes of running and 30 minutes of strength training. During the running portions I’m able to push myself harder since they are shorter efforts – same thing for the strength portions. My favorite instructors are Jess and Chase, but there are tons of other instructors to choose from as well.
Shorter Strength Classes (10-15 minutes)
One thing I hear from a lot of runners is that they don’t have time for strength training, or they don’t feel like doing it after completing a run. Strength training doesn’t have to take a long time – shorter classes are also great too. Have you ever done a 10 minute core or arms toning class? Trust me, that’s all you need! If you find yourself short on time, I would recommend doing a 10 minute strength class a few days a week. It’s a great way to get in at least 30 minutes of strength training a week.
Orangetheory Fitness
Of course I had to include my OTF classes! These classes are temporarily 45 minutes long, instead of 60 minutes, but they still pack a punch! Similar to the bootcamp classes, these classes are equal parts cardio and strength. I also love these classes because the coaches will come around and correct our form. If I’m doing something wrong, I make a mental note of this so that I can make sure I do the move properly at home if it pops up in a bootcamp class.
Tell me: Do you incorporate strength training into your weekly workouts?
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Catrina says
You’re doing a great job with your strength sessions and a real inspiration to me, Kim!
I agree with you, a 10-minute strength class is sometimes all it takes.
I do a 10-20 minute session every day (I rotate between arms, core and lower body) and it really makes a difference.
kookyrunner says
Thanks so much Catrina – you are so sweet! I love that you make time for ST every day.
Chocolaterunsjudy says
I’ve always felt ST is SO important — but can be hard to fit in. I totally agree that 10 minutes can really make a difference, too.
Strong is sexy. 😊
kookyrunner says
Strong is definitely sexy!
Chaitali says
I’ve definitely been learning about the importance of strength training and trying to incorporate it in my routine 🙂 I’ve loved the boot camps that I’ve tried so far so I definitely see keeping those in the plan. And the short 10 minute strength training sessions are great for mid week.
kookyrunner says
I love the short 10 minute strength classes when I need a break from sitting at my desk.
Darlene S Cardillo says
I’m in awe of your routine.
Gyms open next week. Working out with a mask on??? UGH!!
kookyrunner says
I heard about the gyms in NY opening up next week with 33% occupancy. I hope it goes well as I know so many people have been really anxious to get back to the gyms.
Beckett @ Birchwood Pie says
Totally guilty as charged on not having “time” for strength but somehow I always have time to run an extra mile. For me, I know that I run “better” if I strength train but it’s kind of an abstract thing so I think that’s why I fall off the wagon. One of the many reasons why I read so many fitness blogs (apart from just wanting to read about people working out) is to get a peek into how people make strength work. I guess what I’m saying is that I’m listening even if my actions aren’t there right now.
kookyrunner says
It’s totally a process though, and it can be hard especially if you don’t enjoy strength training. I’m sure you’ll find the right balanc between running and strength training.
San says
4-6 sessions per week is really, really great. I don’t get in quite as many, but I do try to be consistent and I’ve enjoying these sessions more and more (not as much as running though LOL).
kookyrunner says
Consistency is key! I’m glad you’ve found a routine that works for you.
Deborah Brooks says
As you now I love my strength training days as well! I am really enjoying the flexibility of stacking the shorter classes together to find a nice mix.
kookyrunner says
Totally agree! Love stacking the shorter classes together because it gives to much variety.
Zenaida Arroyo says
The bootcamp classes scare me. They intimidate them. Maybe once I feel stronger I will do them. I am loving the 10 minute ones. Some of those are hard too!
kookyrunner says
Start off with the 30 minute bootcamps – you can do it!
Michelle @ Running with Attitude says
It’s great to hear that you feel like your strength training and cycling are paying off! I really enjoy strength training and find the one silver lining of no races is that I’ve been focusing on it more. I still need to try one of the Peloton bootcamps.
kookyrunner says
I agree! I love that I’ve had more time to focus on strength training this year.