Running up that hill...

Spent the week in aggressive recovery mode.


Just a reminder to recover as hard as you train.


I saw a massage therapist (told me I had tight hammies & hip flexors), body worker (working on my breathing patterns and low back fascia), did a ​sauna and cold plunge evening​, and then I'll see my PT on Tuesday.


If you're in Denver, the next ​"Race Ready Strength" ​ is on March 12 (focusing on knees) & March 26 (focusing on hips & low back).

Onward!


Hills are like a cheat code for running. How?


They built more strength than running on flat ground...

• Engages glutes, hamstrings, and calves more intensely than flat ground
• Develops lower-body power (almost like a mini-gym workout)
• Improves running economy and stride efficiency

They improve your heart fitness...

• Pushes your heart rate into higher training zones with less speed
• Improves VO2 max and aerobic capacity faster than flat workouts
• Builds endurance that translates directly to race performance

They are (usually) easier on the body...

• Naturally shortens stride, reducing impact on joints
• Encourages a forefoot strike and better running form
• Strengthens stabilizing muscles that protect knees and ankles

And almost most importantly, improves mental toughness...
And next week I'll cover some specific hill workouts I give my clients...
And now an exercise form tip.
If you have any suggestions, please let me know!
Calf Raise Tip...
There are two major muscles in the calves.
If you do raises with straight legs, you focus on one of them.
If you do raises with more than slightly bent knees, you focus on the other one.
So... do both.