Ultrarunning is highly dynamic, but one of the best types of exercise for ultrarunners is almost entirely static. Isometric strength exercises create great tension in muscles and tendons while joint angles and muscle lengths remain unchanged. Well, almost unchanged. More on that later. Some of the reasons isometric strength training can be hugely beneficial …
We all hear it: “You need to lift heavy.” And while lifting heavy has big benefits for cyclists, there’s a piece missing in many riders’ programs, and that’s control. Single-leg strength training is how to get it. If you can’t do a single-leg squat without wobbling around like a Weeble Wobble, heavy squats aren’t the …
There is nothing more powerful in endurance sports than accumulated training time. You can be a better trail and ultra runner next season because the season that just ended is in your training bank. Whether you are new to the sport or aiming to finish events within the time limit, win your age group, or …
When it comes to endurance training, time can be your nemesis or your greatest ally. Instead of focusing on get-fit-quick or lose-weight-quick schemes, it’s important to recognize that meaningful and measurable adaptations to training require diligence and patience. Total training time is the most powerful factor for achieving results from endurance training. Monthly and …
Cycling training camps are an important part of the conversation when we’re in the thick of season planning with cyclists preparing for personal goals. Whether your goals are focused on enjoyment and longevity, completing personal challenges, or winning races, here’s how a cycling training camp will make you a better cyclist. Camaraderie There’s …
Pedaling is the most important skill for a cyclist to master. Yet, because most people learn to pedal as toddlers, there’s an assumption we’ve mastered it by adulthood through sheer repetition. For athletes looking to optimize performance on the bike – any type of bike – training your pedal stroke and cycling cadence are as …
Hip mobility should be a priority for all runners because tight hips rob you of performance and may increase injury risk. Developing and maintaining hip mobility is a central pillar of healthy, efficient, and sustainable running. By addressing restrictions, reinforcing mobility through strength, and consistently integrating mobility stretches and exercises into training, runners can build …
More than 12,000 athletes aged 50 to 100-plus years old gathered this summer in Des Moines, Iowa for the 2025 National Senior Games. There were more than 20 sports represented, with more than 300 State-qualified athletes competing in cycling events. If you’re over 50 and unfamiliar with the National Senior Games, here are the stories …
“When should I start training for an ultramarathon?” We get two versions of this question. Runners looking to tackle their first ultra ask, “How long will it take to be prepared for my first ultramarathon?” Then there are athletes who have attempted one or more ultras and struggled. Soon after a DNF or disappointing …
How much should you run each week? The appropriate run training volume is a fundamental question every athlete asks at some point. Should you run as many hours as you have available? Should you limit your running hours or miles based on the demands of your goal event? Is there a running test or data …