Strength Training Masterclass with CTS Coaches Sarah Scozzaro and Nicole Rasmussen #213
Jan 19, 2024
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CTS Coaches Sarah Scozzaro and Nicole Rasmussen share insights on setting up a strength program for ultrarunners. They discuss programming for performance goals, scheduling, relevant exercises for running, and the importance of tailoring workouts to individual needs. The discussion emphasizes injury prevention, performance enhancement, and balancing strength training with running volume.
Incorporate heavy compound movements early in the season for strength and power development.
Adjust strength training frequency and intensity to align with increasing running demands.
Prioritize key running workouts over strength sessions to optimize performance gains.
Tailor strength programs to complement running goals and enhance overall trail performance.
Focus on individualized and progressive strength training programs for sustained growth and performance gains.
Deep dives
Early Season Focus: Strength Training Programming
In the early season phase, athletes focus on heavy compound movements like squats, deadlifts, and lunges for five sets of five reps with 90-second rests. The emphasis is on building strength and power in the off-season to prepare for the race season. Athletes train two to three days a week with full-body workouts, prioritizing strength before running sessions to maximize performance gains.
Transition to Mid-Season Focus: Adjustments in Strength Training
As athletes transition into mid-season training, they may reduce strength sessions to two days a week to accommodate increasing running intensity. Strength training shifts towards lighter loads at higher reps (6-12 reps) with 45-60 seconds of rest between sets. Exercises focus on maintaining strength and power with variations in squats, deadlifts, and single-leg work to ensure transferability to trail performance.
Balancing Running Intensity and Strength Training
To balance the demands of running and strength training, athletes may adjust their training schedule to prioritize critical run sessions over strength sessions. The goal is to protect key running workouts by ensuring adequate recovery before and after strength training. While an ideal schedule is recommended, practical considerations may lead to adjustments in timing and volume to suit individual needs and lifestyle constraints.
Optimizing Performance Through Strength Training
Strength training continues to play a vital role in enhancing running performance by providing resilience and power. As the race season approaches, the focus shifts towards maintaining strength gains while adapting training frequency and intensity to align with race preparation. It is essential to tailor strength training programs to complement running goals and maximize overall performance on the trail.
Avoid Generic Strength Training Programs
Stop googling generic strength training for runners. Individualized and progressive programs are essential for optimal progress. Seek resources that emphasize personalized and evolving routines for sustained growth.
Maintain a Distinct Focus on Endurance vs. Strength Training
Separate your endurance work from your strength training. Focus on building strength in the weight room and work on endurance during your running sessions. Avoid mixing cardio-style circuits in your weight training routines.
Avoid Fear of Lifting Heavy Weights
Don't be afraid of lifting heavy weights. Embrace progressive overload and seek guidance to build a strong foundation. Overcome the fear of challenging your body with heavier loads to enhance overall strength.
Stop Turning Strength Sessions Into Cardio Sessions
Stop trying to build endurance in the gym. Cardiovascular gains are achieved through running, not short bursts of exercises in the weight room. Focus on strength training solely when weightlifting to optimize adaptations.
Importance of Proper Form in Strength Training
Avoid poor form checks in strength training routines. Utilize resources like trusted books, videos, and qualified trainers to ensure proper form and technique. Establish a foundation of correct movement patterns for effective and safe workouts.
CTS Coaches Sarah Scozzaro and Nicole Rasmussen go over how to set up a strength program for ultrarunners. We discuss strength training for injury resiliency, performance goals, and health, and discuss tools that you can use to set up your season.
Episode highlights:
(32:01) Programming for performance goals: experience in the gym, addressing weaknesses in strength and power, utilizing gym time while running volume is low, heavier lifts early in the season
(41:59) Scheduling your week: strength training is not rest, hard days hard, easy days easy, stacking strength workouts with high-intensity runs, the most important focus comes first, protect what matters the most.
(1:21:14) General exercises for running: consider the demands of trail and ultra, strengthening relevant muscles, the challenge of addressing this on a podcast, resources in the show notes