Running + other for overall body toning?

[Howhigh?]

Hey guys I am 16, 5'11'', 145 pounds, and on the second week Couch to 5k running plan.
coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml]Cool Running :: The Couch-to-5K Running Plan

And I was wondering whats the best form of overall body training in order to supplement running.

Thanks ahead of time,

HowHigh

 

[tjl]

You may want to consider your goals. For example, are they:

* optimize for distance running
* optimize for sprint running
* optimize for some other sport
* general fitness

For example, if your goal is general fitness, you may want to add full body weight training and perhaps mix in some full body or upper body cardio (e.g. swimming, rowing, or paddling). And mix in HIIT as well as endurance cardio. To make best use of your time, consider running to get to places (school / work / gym / etc.) in order to get useful work out of your exercise.

On the other hand, if you want to optimize for a specific sport, what you want to do may be different. Distance runners often do not develop much upper body muscle, because that is just extra weight to carry around. Sumo wrestlers try to get as much weight as possible, even if much of it is fat. Neither is typically considered an ideal body by someone doing something other than those sports.

 

[sparrow]

I agree with tjl. If its only running you are concerned about I would consider adding a pilates/yoga class 2 days a week along with your training. Core strength is essential in running (Pilates). It strengthens supporting muscles and will allow you to keep your form as the deeper levels of fatigue settle in during your run. Flexibility is also important (yoga) not only to inhance range of motion, but also to keep injuries at bay.

 

[AliciaAZ3]

I agree with tjl. If its only running you are concerned about I would consider adding a pilates/yoga class 2 days a week along with your training. Core strength is essential in running (Pilates). It strengthens supporting muscles and will allow you to keep your form as the deeper levels of fatigue settle in during your run. Flexibility is also important (yoga) not only to inhance range of motion, but also to keep injuries at bay.

Good information! Even more of a reason for me to do that bikram yoga class LOL