Is it useful for runners to cross-train using kettlebells?

Asked by: Kim Wilson

Kettlebell training is an effective, appropriate, and time-efficient way for runners to prevent injury and improve performance. Running causes a lot of impact on the body each time the foot strikes the ground, and long-distance running especially can wear down the muscles and joints over hundreds of miles.

Should runners do kettlebell swings?

These explosive movements can help improve your running by improving your power, strength, and even running form. For example, the kettlebell swing develops power in your hips and glutes – power which you can use when running, especially when running fast or on hilly terrain.

Is cross training important for runners?

“Cross training is valuable because it allows the athlete to continue training but decreases bone stress to help avoid injury. It also increases cardiovascular endurance while not taxing the joints as much as the forces incurred through running.” Cross training can have both mental and physical benefits.

Can kettlebells replace running?

Yes, without using a treadmill, bike, or elliptical. Kettlebell workouts can even replace an extra cardio session at the end of a workout. They provide a way to incorporate strength training and cardio training into one.

Is kettlebell training better than running?

Kettlebells are often cited as a better option for weight loss, even when compared with running. In 2000, the American Council on Exercise released a study, “Kettlebells: Twice the Results in Half the Time,” touting the superiority of kettlebells over running for burning calories.

Do kettlebell swings help sprinting?

Kettlebells offer the athlete a chance to train their power, speed, and strength in a safe, consistent and effective manner. The three kettlebell exercises that I have found bring the greatest benefit to sprinters are the swing, the plyo swing, and the snatch.

How often should you do kettlebell workouts?

two to three times a week

Start with kettlebells that are at a lighter weight (but not at a level where the exercises are super easy) and work your way up to a heavier weight that you can tolerate. As for how often you should train, Hewett suggests training two to three times a week.

What’s the best cross-training for runners?

The following are some of the best cross-training activities for runners.

• Cycling. Cycling, like running, is largely dependent on the major muscles in the legs. …
• Swimming. …
• Aqua Jogging. …
• Elliptical. …
• Nordic Skiing.

What type of cross-training should runners do?

Typically, athletes want to do cross-training that compliments their main sport. For runners, this could be swimming, cycling, or even walking to help build endurance. Keep in mind, running is a unilateral movement—so it’s important to incorporate unilateral exercises, such as lunges, into strength-training workouts.

How often should runners cross train?

How often should I cross-train? Beginners should look to cross-train one to two times per week. Look to cross-train either the day before your long-run to rest your legs or the day after your long run to help recover your legs. These cross-training sessions should be anywhere from twenty to sixty-minutes at a time.

What happens when you do 100 kettlebell swings a day?

100 kettlebell swings a day improves your posture, reduces back pain, promotes health testosterone and growth hormone levels, and builds a habit of movement and fitness into your daily lives.

Is kettlebell better than cardio?

The 12-Minute Kettlebell Calorie Burner
To incinerate your cheat meal faster, skip the treadmill and exercise bike: A 12-minute kettlebell circuit burns more calories than doing all-out cardio for the same length of time, a Southeastern Louisiana University study found.

Are kettlebells enough for cardio?

Kettlebells can provide a great cardio and strength training workout. The movements involve the entire body and work on areas such as balance, coordination, and power development in ways you won’t get with dumbbells or a barbell.

Is kettlebell training better than weight training?

The results of this study indicated that short-term weightlifting and kettlebell training were effective in increasing strength and power. However, the gain in strength using weightlifting movements was greater than that during kettlebell training.

Does kettlebells count as strength training?

So as kettlebells are a weight they can certainly be classed as a tool for developing strength. Any type of kettlebell workout, providing you use a kettlebell that challenges you, can be classed as a strength based workout.