As a coach, I’ve witnessed the game-changing effects of strength and stability on a runner’s performance
But here’s the thing: there’s an often-overlooked tool that can transform your running game, and it doesn’t require a gym, fancy equipment, or even a lot of space.
I’m talking about isometric exercises.
When I first tried isometric training with P90X, I wasn’t convinced. I love the feeling of movement, the flow of running, and the freedom of hitting the trails. The idea of holding a static position didn’t exactly excite me.
But once I tried it, I was blown away by the results. Isometric exercises are simple, but they pack a punch. They improve strength, stability, and endurance to complement running perfectly.
So, want to strengthen your muscles, sharpen your form, and dodge injuries, all without any fancy equipment?
Let’s dive into isometric training.
What Are Isometric Exercises?
Simply put, isometric exercises mean holding a pose without budging.
Even though you’re still, your muscles work overtime to hold that position, boosting your strength, stability, and stamina.
This type of training has a lot to offer, especially for runners looking to improve their performance and prevent injuries.
When I first held a plank, I expected it to be easy. Spoiler: it wasn’t! The burn in my core, the tension in my shoulders, and the way every muscle seemed to scream for relief showed me just how effective this training style can be.
Now, I use isometric exercises regularly, and they’re a key part of my strength training.
Here are a couple of studies that looked into the impact of isometric training on athletes:
- Research published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research shows that isometric exercises can lead to significant improvements in muscle strength and stability.
- A study from the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports found that isometric training can improve joint stability, which is crucial for preventing injuries, especially in high-impact sports like running.
Why Every Runner Should Be Doing Isometric Exercises
Now, you might be wondering, “Why should I, as a runner, care about isometric exercises?” The truth is, they offer a ton of benefits that translate directly to your performance on the road or trail.
Here’s a breakdown of the science behind these simple but powerful moves:
Convenience
One of the best things about isometric exercises? They’re super convenient. You don’t need any equipment, which means you can do them anywhere—at home, during a break at work, or even on vacation. All you need is your body, a small space, and a bit of motivation.
Plus, because these exercises don’t require much time, you can easily fit them into your busy schedule, making it easier to stay consistent with your strength training.
Improved Muscle Stability
A study published in the Strength and Conditioning Journal found that isometric exercises enhance joint stability, which is key for runners. Since running involves repetitive motion, stability in joints like the knees, hips, and ankles can help you maintain form over long distances and uneven terrain. The study emphasizes that holding isometric positions, such as wall sits, can reinforce the smaller stabilizing muscles, reducing the risk of imbalance and injuries.
Injury Prevention Through Core Strength
Core stability is essential for runners, and isometric exercises like planks are some of the best ways to target those muscles. Research from the American Council on Exercise (ACE) shows that isometric core exercises activate deep core muscles more effectively than many dynamic movements. A strong core not only helps you maintain good posture during your run but also minimizes the stress on your lower back and hips, two common areas of pain for runners.
Enhancing Endurance and Mental Toughness
Isometric exercises aren’t just about building muscle—they also teach mental focus and resilience. Research reported that isometric exercises help improve muscular endurance and mental toughness, two qualities that are invaluable during long races. Holding positions like a plank challenges both your mind and muscles to stay steady under pressure, which can translate to a steadier stride and better form on race day.
Improved Flexibility
And it’s not just about recovery. I found that adding these holds to my regular training helped with flexibility too. Holding positions like a deep squat or a calf raise not only made me stronger but also improved my range of motion. Now, I’m much more flexible during my warm-ups, and I’m not as sore after long runs.
Low Impact
What I love most about isometric training is its low impact, perfect for recovery phases. A few months ago, I was dealing with some knee pain after increasing my mileage too quickly.
I needed a way to maintain my strength without aggravating my injury, and that’s when I turned to isometric exercises. They allowed me to work on building strength in my quads, glutes, and calves without putting extra stress on my knees.
6 Isometric Exercises For Runners
Now that you know why isometric exercises are great for runners, let’s dive into some specific moves. These exercises will strengthen the muscles you rely on most while running, like your core, glutes, quads, and calves.
Aim to hold each position for 1 to 2 minutes, and rest for about 30 seconds between each exercise.
Completing one circuit of these exercises will take about 15 minutes, making it a quick but effective addition to your routine.
Isometric Calf Raise
When I first started doing isometric calf raises, I realized just how much stronger my calves needed to be. I could barely hold the position for more than 30 seconds before my legs started shaking.
But after a few weeks, I was up to a full minute. The best part? Climbing hills on my runs became way easier, and I noticed less soreness in my lower legs.
Proper Form
Start by standing tall on the edge of a step or on a sturdy box, with your feet shoulder width apart and knees straight.
Next, rise up onto your toes and try to balance your bodyweight on the balls of your feet.
If you have any balance issues here, then feel free to grab a chair or a wall if necessary.
Hold the position for one full minute then slowly lower your heels to starting position.
Remember these are not your typical calf raises, so hold the pose for as long as you can with good form.
Feel the burn, welcome it, and hold it for longer as you get stronger and fitter.
Isometric Leg Extensions
I have a confession: I used to neglect my quads in my strength routine. That was until I experienced a mild case of runner’s knee.
My physical therapist introduced me to isometric leg extensions, and while it seemed simple at first, I quickly felt the burn in my quads. After a few weeks, my knee pain started to fade, and I’ve kept this exercise in my rotation ever since.
Proper Form
Sit on a chair with your tailbone firmly against the back of the chair, hands resting on the chair with both feet flat on the floor.
Next, while gazing ahead and keeping the back straight, slowly extend your right leg out in front of you, engage your quads, and reach your toes toward your shin as much as you can without losing form.
Hold the position for 30 seconds to one minute, then lower down to starting position and change sides.
Isometric Wall Chair
This one takes me back to my high school track days when my coach would make us hold wall sits for what felt like an eternity. Back then, I didn’t understand the purpose, but now I get it. Building that quad endurance has made a huge difference in my ability to power through the last mile of a race without my legs giving out on me.
Proper Form
Stand with your upper back and back of your head against the wall.
Keep your feet about two feet out in front of you.
Next, while holding your arms across your chest, lower yourself in a slow and controlled manner down by bending your knees until your thighs are parallel to the floor.
Hold this squat position for one full minute, then slowly press back up to starting position.
If this pose was too easy, you can always up the ante by alternating between lifting your right foot for a few seconds then your left.
Split Squat
This move humbled me big time. When I first tried it, I could feel my muscles shaking almost immediately. But I stuck with it, and now I love the feeling of holding that deep lunge position. My hip flexors have never been happier, and I can definitely feel the strength boost in my glutes on my long runs.
Proper Form
Assume an athletic stance with back straight and core engaged, then step into a lunge position , making sure your toes are pointing straight ahead.
Next, make the pose more challenging by sinking down until your front knee is bent to a 90 degrees and your back knee nearly touches the floor.
This is the split squat position.
Hold for 30 seconds to one full minute, then push yourself back up to starting position, then switch sides.
Forearm Plank
When I first added this to my routine, I thought, “I’ve got this.” But around the one-minute mark, I realized just how intense it really was. Planking has made a huge difference in my core stability, which helps keep my form in check during those final grueling miles.
This is a great move to increase strength and endurance in your core muscles and shoulders.
Proper Form
Assume a plank position with the forearms on a well padded mat, back straight, and body forming a straight line.
Next, tighten your abs, squeeze your glutes, and hold the pose for one to two minute to complete one set.
Squat Hold
The squat hold is another one of those exercises that look deceivingly simple. But when you’re halfway through holding that position, you’ll understand why it’s so effective. This exercise has helped me build strength in my quads and glutes, and it’s made a noticeable difference in my running performance.
Proper Form
Start by standing with your feet about shoulder-width apart, core activated and back straight.
Next, bend your knees and squat down so your thighs are parallel to the floor.
Imagine that you are sitting on imaginary chair, and hold the pose for one to two minutes.
If you’re thinking of trying these exercises, my best advice is to stay consistent. You don’t need to do them every day, but adding them once or twice a week can do wonders for your strength and stability. Remember to start slow, focus on good form, and embrace the burn. Trust me, your running game will thank you for it!
Isometric Exercises for Runners: FAQ
I know that you have more than one pressing questions about iso training for runners. Let me address some of the most common ones.
How often should I do isometric exercises?
Ideally, incorporate isometric exercises 2-3 times per week, either post-run or on designated rest days. Since these exercises are low-impact, they’re less taxing on the body, making them perfect for active recovery days. Consistency is key to building stability and strength, so aim to add them regularly without overloading your routine.
What’s the best way to add isometric exercises to my running routine?
A great approach is to add isometric holds at the end of your regular strength workout or run. Exercises like planks, wall sits, and glute bridges can be seamlessly integrated as a “finisher,” helping reinforce the stabilizing muscles you used during your run. Try holding each position for 20-30 seconds, then increase the time as you get stronger.
Are isometric exercises suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Isometric exercises are accessible to all fitness levels. Beginners can start with shorter holds (10-15 seconds) and focus on maintaining good form. These exercises allow you to build foundational strength and stability without needing any equipment, making them a perfect addition to any runner’s training plan.
Can isometric exercises replace traditional strength training?
While isometric exercises are excellent for building stability and core strength, they’re best used as a complement to traditional strength training rather than a complete replacement. Traditional strength moves, like squats and lunges, target dynamic power and range of motion, while isometrics focus on stabilizing and holding muscles under tension. Together, they create a balanced approach, helping you build both power and control.
What if I have an injury?
If you’re dealing with an injury, isometric exercises can actually be a safe way to maintain strength without adding strain. For example, holding a static position like a wall sit or glute bridge is gentler on joints than dynamic movements. However, always consult with a sports therapist or healthcare provider to ensure you’re performing exercises safely and avoiding any positions that might aggravate your injury.
Conclusion:
Adding isometric exercises into your training routine can be a game-changer. They strengthen key muscles, improve flexibility, and help prevent injuries—all without requiring much time or equipment.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced runner, these exercises can help you become stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to handle the demands of running.
So, give them a try! Add them to your weekly routine, and you’ll soon notice improvements in your strength, endurance, and overall running performance.
Keep training strong, and feel free to leave any questions or comments below!