How to improve your muscle imbalances and strength for optimum running performance
If you are new to running, or you just want to develop your running technique, one of the first things you should endeavor to identify in your first few running sessions is whether you have any muscular imbalances.
We are a generation who tends to spend a lot of time sitting, from sitting in the car or bus to get to work, to sitting at your desk, to sitting on the couch, to then sleeping side on with your legs still in a chair 'seated' position. Yes, habitual movement patterns do tend to get the better of most people.
As a result many of us have muscle imbalances, from abnormally weak muscles or incredibly tight ones, both of which can cause stride irregularities.
Correcting these imbalances is important, as it will you a better foundation to run with good technique.
Consider performing functional strengthening exercises and joint mobility exercises prior to running to assist with this issue.
Running is not the only training a runner needs to be doing. In order to maintain a good posture through the race, you also need to focus on core strength and stability to ensure that they have enough strength to remain in a comfortable position for the duration of the run they are doing.
You should also work on strengthening your leg muscles, as not only is there a lot of pressure put on them while running, but as you also only have one foot on the ground at a time, it makes it even more important that legs are strong and the core and stabilisers are trained too.
Weighted squats, lunges and deadlifts are all great exercises for runners. Focusing on the hip stabilising muscles and core muscles is important too.