The Strength Running Podcast

CrossFit vs. Pilates, Best Calf Exercises, and How to Lift More Weight with Victoria Sekely DPT

13 snips
May 15, 2025
Dr. Victoria Sekely, a physical therapist and certified strength coach, discusses optimal fitness strategies for runners. She explains the importance of strength training over alternatives like Pilates, and why something can sometimes be worse than nothing. The conversation covers how to successfully integrate CrossFit with marathon training, emphasizing burnout management and effective workout scheduling. Victoria also shares her favorite calf exercises and tips on increasing weights confidently, all grounded in her extensive expertise in running performance.
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ADVICE

Balancing CrossFit With Marathon Training

  • Balance marathon training and CrossFit by prioritizing your primary goal and adjusting frequency or intensity accordingly.
  • Modify CrossFit workouts and schedule around key runs to avoid excessive fatigue and burnout.
INSIGHT

Pilates, Yoga Not Strength Replacements

  • Pilates and yoga don't provide enough overload to induce meaningful strength gains needed for runners.
  • Strength training requires progressive overload that bodyweight or light weights in yoga/Pilates typically can't offer.
ADVICE

Overcoming Fear of Heavy Lifting

  • Overcome fear of adding weight by progressing gradually from light dumbbells to heavier weights before using barbells.
  • Accept that strength training feels different from running and benefits come from focused, heavy effort, not aerobic demand.
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