Why are squats necessary for runners? What is the right way to squat? Coach Answers

Why are squats good for runners? Opinions of coaches

January 17, 2021, 15:35 MSC

It’s important not only to bulk up, but also to pump the right muscles.

Squats are one of the simplest physical exercises. You don’t need special equipment, a lot of space or knowledge of complex technical skills to perform them. Thanks to its simplicity, squats are loved by many: both professional athletes and amateurs. If you are fond of running, this exercise will not only help you keep a beautiful figure, but also improve endurance and speed.

How to perform squats correctly?

While performing squats, it is important to remember a few rules.

Keep your back straight.
Put your feet a little wider than your shoulders.
When the knees will bend, feed the buttocks back.

Squatting is necessary smoothly, without jerks. If you are new to this case – go down to parallel to the floor and make sure that the knees were bent at right angles. Arms can be stretched forward, folded in front of the chest or take an additional weight.

See other exercises for leg muscles in the video “Championship”.

Why squat for runners?

Researchers at the University of California found that when done correctly, squats can provide more benefits than any other type of fitness exercise.

Running Community coaches Vera Sosnova そして Pavel Kondrashev talked about why this exercise is good for athletes.

Vera: For runners squats are useful first of all because they develop and strengthen leg muscles involved in running. In addition, it is useful for runners to squat with a small weight – it helps to increase the efficiency of running, reduce the risk of injury. These exercises strengthen the quadriceps and gluteal muscles. Their strength is extremely important, for example, when climbing uphill. In addition, squats improve your endurance and strengthen your abs.

Paul: The biceps and rectus femoris are often the first muscles to show signs of fatigue in runners. In addition to strengthening the most important muscles for this sport, squats also strengthen the back and trunk. The strength and stability of the body has a big impact on a runner’s performance, helps prevent injuries and makes running more economical. By the way, many beginners, starting jogging, make the mistake of leaning forward a lot, trying to accelerate. This is due to muscle weakness and can lead to knee injuries.