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Strength training has become a big priority for me. This isn\u2019t a quick bodyweight circuit I fit in at home (which does of course have its time and place!). I follow a proper structured gym programme, put together by my PT Izzy. I train up to three times a week alongside my three runs, with sessions split across upper body push\/pull, legs and abs, and arms and abs. Each session is 30-60 minutes.<\/p>\n
I log every session, track the weights, and now aim and push for progression each time, the same way I\u2019d approach a training block for a race. At the moment, I\u2019m working with weights and progressive overload \u2013 building on the numbers each session to session, not just going through the motions. Right now that means things like leg press, building up through a working set, banded glute bridges, chest press, pull downs, and rows, plus dumbbell work for arms.<\/p>\n
The goal for me is toning and strength, not bulk. I want visible definition through my arms, back, core and legs. I\u2019m not shy about admitting I\u2019d love to finally be rid of \u2018bingo wings\u2019, as well as to feel confident and strong.<\/p>\n
But just as important is what it does for my running. Stronger glutes and legs mean more stability on hills and through longer distances, and knee and ankle strength I can rely on mile after mile. Trust me when I say I\u2019ve had enough injuries<\/a> to know this is now key.<\/p>\n If you don\u2019t do a lot of strength training yet as a runner, I get it.\u00a0 Juggling work, family and running already feels like enough. But doing strength work doesn\u2019t need to mean hours in a gym. Even a couple of proper sessions a week, done consistently and with intent, make a real difference.<\/p>\n For me, strength training has become as non-negotiable as the runs themselves. It\u2019s part of how I\u2019m training toward the Royal Parks Half this October, and part of how I plan to keep running strong for years to come.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\nJenni\u2019s strength training advice<\/h3>\n