Leg Strength for Runners

The Best 5 Quad Exercises For Runners

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Let’s talk about something that’s been a game changer for my running performance and might be for yours, too—strength training.

Now, I’ll admit when I first started focusing more on strength, I didn’t give my quads the love they deserve. Big mistake!

And when it comes to muscle groups that deserve your attention, the quadriceps are at the top of the list.

These powerhouse muscles support your body with each stride and help propel you forward.

Don’t take my word for it.

Research shows that during an 8:00-per-mile pace, the quads are responsible for 35% of the force that pushes you ahead.

They’re the powerhouse behind your stride, but they also play a protective role by helping to alleviate and prevent knee pain.

Let’s dive into how to strengthen this vital running muscle.

What Are the Quadriceps Muscles?

The quadriceps, commonly known as the “quads,” are a group of four muscles located on the front of your thighs. They are among the strongest muscles in your body, crucial for movement, stability, and power. Here’s a breakdown of each one:

  • Vastus Medialis: The teardrop muscle is located on the inner part of your thigh near the knee.
  • Vastus Lateralis: Found on the outer part of the upper thigh, responsible for leg extension.
  • Rectus Femoris: A key player in hip flexion, this muscle runs down the middle of your thigh.
  • Vastus Intermedius: Positioned deep in the thigh between the vastus medialis and vastus lateralis.

These muscles are essential for knee extension, meaning they play a major role in all physical activities like walking, running, jumping, and squatting.

And let’s be honest, no one enjoys the feeling of weak legs halfway through a run, right?

If you’re like me, you’ve probably had moments where your legs felt like they were running on empty—especially on those last miles. That’s where strong quads come in to save the day.

When you build strength in this area, you give yourself more power to push off with each step.

Strong quads act like natural shock absorbers, helping you avoid knee injuries. I can’t tell you how many runners I’ve seen sidelined by runner’s knee because they neglected this key muscle group.

Why Strengthen Your Quads?

Building strong quads can be a game-changer for runners. Here’s why:

  1. Improve Speed: Strong quads give you more power to push off the ground, helping you run faster and tackle hills with greater ease.
  2. Injury Prevention: Weak quads can contribute to various running injuries, including runner’s knee. Strong quads help stabilize your knee and track your kneecap properly during your runs.
  3. Boost Endurance: Tired legs at the end of a long run? Strengthening your quads can delay fatigue and keep your legs feeling fresh longer.
  4. Shock Absorption: Strong quads act as natural shock absorbers, reducing the impact on your knees and protecting them from overuse injuries.

How to Strengthen Your Quads as a Runner

If you’re ready to build those quads, here are some key principles.

Start Slowly

As with any new training, take it easy at first. Gradually increase the intensity by adding more weight or reps over time.

Warm Up Properly

Start each strength session with a dynamic warm-up. Spend 5 minutes jogging or running in place, followed by exercises like squats, lunges, and high knees to get your muscles warm and ready.

Proper Form

Proper form is king, so keep it all the time — quality over quantity.

Never aim to perform more reps without paying attention to your form.

Remember that as you make your training more challenging, you’ll perform fewer reps but still gain strength.

Don’t Forget Your Hamstrings

You also need to strengthen your hamstrings in conjunction with the quads.

Otherwise, you’ll only exacerbate muscle imbalances if you exclusively work on one group muscle while neglecting the other.

As a runner, your quads might be already stronger due to the running motion. That’s why runners are more prone to have weaker hamstrings than quads.

I highly recommend stiff-legged deadlifts and leg circles for training your hamstrings.

The 5 Best Quad Exercises for Runners

These exercises target your quads from different angles, helping you build strength, stability, and power.

1. Squats

I started with bodyweight squats but added dumbbells for an extra challenge once I got stronger. Keep your form tight—back flat, core engaged, and knees tracking over your toes.

How to do it:

  • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, back straight, and core engaged.
  • Lower into a squat by bending your knees and pushing your hips back as if you’re sitting in a chair.
  • Go down until your thighs are parallel to the floor.
  • Push back up through your heels to return to the starting position.

2. Single-Leg Squats (Pistol Squats)

These are killer, but they’ll make you stronger, no question. When I first tried these, I had to hold onto a chair for balance. I can do them unassisted, and the strength gains have been huge.

How to do it:

  • Stand on one leg, extending the other leg in front of you.
  • Slowly squat down on the standing leg, lowering your body as far as possible while keeping your core engaged.
  • Push through your heel to return to standing.

3. Leg Extensions

Leg extensions isolate the quads and target those muscles without engaging other lower-body groups.

How to do it:

  • Sit on a leg extension machine with the pad resting against your shins.
  • Extend your legs fully, squeezing your quads at the top.
  • Slowly lower the weight, but stop before your knees reach a 90-degree angle.

4. Weighted Walking Lunges

I love this move because it’s dynamic and mimics the motion we use in running. Plus, it targets the quads, especially the rectus femoris, which is key for hip flexion.

How to do it:

  • Hold dumbbells at your sides or place a barbell across your upper back.
  • Step forward with one leg and lower your body into a lunge until both knees are bent at 90 degrees.
  • Push off your front foot to bring your back foot forward, and continue walking in the lunge position.

5. Leg Press

I don’t use machines too often, but when I do, I love the leg press for its ability to isolate the quads. Just be careful to maintain good form and avoid locking your knees.

How to do it:

  • Sit on the leg press machine with your feet shoulder-width apart on the footplate.
  • Press the weight by extending your knees, keeping your back flat against the pad.
  • Lower the weight slowly, ensuring your knees are aligned with your toes, and don’t bow inward or outward.

Final Thoughts

Strong quads are key for running performance, endurance, and injury prevention. Incorporating these exercises into your routine will help you run faster, longer, and with fewer injuries. I’ve seen the benefits firsthand—it’s made a huge difference in my running journey, and can do the same for you.

So, are you ready to give your quads the focus they need? Lace up your shoes, hit the gym, and let’s build those powerhouse legs that will carry you across every finish line—stronger, faster, and injury-free!

quadriceps exercises

New to Running? Start Here…

If you’re serious about running, getting fit, and staying injury free, then make sure to download my Runners Blueprint Guide!

Inside this guide, you’ll learn how to start running and lose weight the easy and painless way. This is, in fact, your ultimate manifesto to becoming a faster and a stronger runner. And you want that, don’t you?

 Click HERE to check out my Runners Blueprint System today!

Don’t miss out! My awesome running plan is just one click away.

Quad Exercises For Runners – The Conclusion

There you have it!

The above quad exercises are the best when it comes to increasing strength in your lower body, especially in the rectus femoris muscle.

Do this awesome quad workout on a regular basis if you’re serious about making real progress. Also, keep in mind to stay within your fitness level the entire time.

Here are more  strength exercises for runners.

Please feel free to leave your comments and questions in the section below.

In the meantime thank you for reading my post

Keep Running Strong

David D.

13 Squat Variations for Runners: From Basic to Weighted, Transform Your Running Game

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Strength Exercises For Runners

Let’s talk squats, shall we? Imagine if I could serenade every runner with a strength training love song, it’d be crooning “Squat, squat, squat…” on a never-ending loop! Because if there’s one golden nugget of exercise that I’d shout from the rooftops for every runner to embrace, yup, you guessed it – it’s the squat.

Here’s the lowdown for my fellow pavement pounders: whether you’re just stepping into your running shoes or have countless miles under your belt, squats (with their trusty sidekick, planks) deserve a standing ovation in your training routine.

Do Squats Help with Running?

So what makes the squat such a fantastic exercise?

Here are some of the reasons:

Increased strength

To truly thrive in running, strength isn’t just a bonus; it’s a necessity. It’s your shield against injuries and your ticket to top-notch performance.

Enter squats.

They’re like the Swiss Army knife of exercises – efficient, versatile, and oh-so-effective. From your quadriceps to your glutes, squats ensure that every running muscle gets a piece of the action.

Check “The Effects of Resistance Training on Endurance Distance Running Performance Among Highly Trained Runners: A Systematic Review” by Rønnestad et al., which explores the impact of resistance training on endurance athletes.

Boosted Core strength

Think of your core as the control center. When you squat, it’s working overtime to keep everything in check, making sure you’re moving right and staying injury-free. Want to level up? Add some front squats, overhead squats, and those sassy twisting squats to the mix. Your core will thank you (maybe not immediately, but definitely in the long run!).

Don’t take my word for it. Check out a research like “Core Muscle Activation During Swiss Ball and Traditional Abdominal Exercises” by Escamilla et al. This study delves into the activation of core muscles during various exercises, including squats.

Prevents Injury

Ever heard of pesky nuisances like the iliotibial band syndrome or runner’s knee? Well, by turbo-charging muscles like your hip abductors and quads, squats are like your personal bodyguards, shielding you from these running woes.  Studies such as “Prevention of Running Injuries” by Fields et al. are a perfect example.  This research examines strategies for injury prevention in runners.

Improve Bone Mass

Squats, as well as other weight-bearing exercises, help fortify your bone mass. So, as you gracefully dance through the years, squats are ensuring your bones remain as sturdy as a fortress, keeping issues like osteoporosis at bay.

Improved Flexibility

Imagine squats as your personal yoga instructor, guiding your body to stretch, bend, and twist, exploring its full potential.

Every time you squat, you’re granting your ankles, knees, hips, and glutes a ticket to the flexibility fiesta! Embracing this complete range of motion? It’s not just a boon for turning you into a human rubber band, but it’s pivotal for elite performance and sidestepping injuries.

The 11 Best Squats For Runners

Squats can be performed in so many ways.

So here are 13 squat variations for your squatting pleasure.

Squat For Runners – 1. Basic Squat

This is the standard squat.

Master this basic move before you move onto the more challenging variations.

Here are a few pointers to help you master the basic form:

Before you dive headfirst into the ocean of squat variations, let’s get you acquainted with the OG: The Basic Squat. It’s the foundation, the bedrock, the ‘original’ in your squat playlist. And nailing this down? It’s your golden ticket to all the cool, fancy versions out there.

Want a visual? Check out this handy tutorial: YouTube Tutorial on Basic Squat

Step-by-Step to Squat Perfection:

Set the Stage:

Stand tall, feet hip-width apart. Point those toes out just a tad.

Let your arms chill by your sides.

Channel a proud peacock: shoulders back, core engaged, and stand as if you’re trying to impress someone cute across the room.

The Descent:

Now, the fun part! Lower down, bending those knees. Aim to get those thighs chatting with the floor, becoming parallel buddies. But hey, if you two don’t hit it off right away, just get as low as feels right.

Quick checkpoint: keep those knees playing nice with your toes. And those toes? They’re glued to the floor, no lifting!

Push through those heels, straighten up, and give your glutes a good squeeze as you ascend.

Pro-tip: Imagine you’re in a love triangle with your knees and toes. Keep the knees tracking over your toes the entire time. It keeps the drama in check!

And voila! You’ve just done the basic squat. Keep practicing, and soon, you’ll be the talk of the squat town!

Squat For Runners – 2. Weighted Squat

Once you get the hang of the basic squat, then you can up the ante by adding weights.

In this variation, make sure to have a set of dumbbells of a challenging weight.

Proper Form

Ready to turn up the intensity a notch?

Let’s introduce a little extra “oomph” to your squats with some added weight! Once you’ve danced with the basic squat and feel like you’ve got the rhythm, it’s time to jazz things up.

Why Weighted Squats?

When you add weights to your squat routine, you’re essentially challenging your muscles to work a bit harder. And guess what? They love a good challenge! It’s like turning your squat from a casual stroll in the park to a delightful uphill hike.

Need a step-by-step visual? Dive into this tutorial: YouTube Tutorial on Weighted Squat.

Let’s Break Down the Weighted Squat:

Starting Strong:

Grab a pair of dumbbells that give you that “just right” challenging feel. Not too light, not too heavy.

Stand athletic. Feet? Shoulder-width apart. Dumbbells? Held by your side, palms giving each other a secret handshake.

This is home base. Your starting position.

The Mighty Descent:

Engage that core, it’s your secret weapon!

Squat on down. Imagine there’s an imaginary chair you’re trying to sit on. Bend at those hips and knees.

Hold that squat for a moment.

Climbing Back:

Time to rise back to stardom. Slowly and powerfully push up, coming back to your starting pose.

Remember, it’s a performance, not a race. Grace over pace!

Your Challenge: Go for 10 to 12 reps.

Additional resource – The Myrtl routine

Squat For Runners – 3. Wall Squat

This variation is relatively easy and can help you build mobility and endurance in your lower body.

Do this variation more often if you are often plagued with runners’ knee or knee pain because wall squats are safe and target the quads more than the standard version; according to a study, weak quads are linked to knee pain in runners.

Proper Form

Ever felt like taking a bit of a lean against a wall while working on those legs? Well, the wall squat is your buddy!

It’s the cool cousin of the standard squat, giving you a mix of ease and challenge at the same time. Plus, for those of us who’ve felt the pesky sting of runner’s knee or the occasional knee twinge, this might just be the balm you need.

 Why Wall Squat?

The wall squat, while seemingly chill, is great for enhancing your lower body’s endurance and mobility. It’s especially nifty because it zones in on those quads. And a little birdie (actually, some smart research) says that beefing up those quads can be the key to waving goodbye to knee pain for runners. So, let’s give those quads some love!

Breaking Down the Wall Squat:

Start with the Wall:

Your back? Cozy against a wall. Your feet? Placed confidently about two feet out in front of you. Remember, stand tall and proud; this is your power pose!

Slide & Glide:

Now, imagine you’re about to sit in a chair that’s not there. Push those hips back against the wall and slide down. The goal? Get those knees to a comfy 90-degree angle.

Hold the Magic:

Here’s where the fun (and burn) starts. Hold that pose! Aim for one to two minutes. Feels long? Just think of all the strength you’re building!

Level Up:

Finding it too breezy? Let’s play a game. Lift your right foot for a few seconds, then the left. It’s like you’re dancing but also toning those calves.

When done, slowly glide back up, standing tall and feeling the victory in those legs.

So the next time you see a wall, you know it’s not just for leaning against casually. It’s your workout buddy! Happy wall squatting!

This will also engage more of your calves.

Squat For Runners – 4. Tiptoe Squat

Dreamed of dancing on your tiptoes but never signed up for ballet? Well, the tiptoe squat has got you covered. Not only is it a fun variation, but it’s also fantastic for getting those calves and quads in shape. And here’s the best part: If you’ve ever thought, “I wish my quads were more toned without enlarging my glutes,” then this is your golden ticket!

Why the Tiptoe Squat?

It’s all about targeting those specific muscles. This squat dives deep into the calves and quadriceps, ensuring you get that sculpted look.

Need a visual? Here’s how it’s done: YouTube Tutorial on Tiptoe Squat

Mastering the Tiptoe Squat:

Stand confidently, feet a hip’s distance apart. Now, channel your inner ballet dancer and elevate onto the balls of your feet. Voilà! Your power stance is ready.

With grace, lower into a squat. Remember, slow and steady wins the race here. Once you’ve gone as low as feels good, take a moment to appreciate the burn, then rise to your starting position, keeping those heels lifted.

Feeling wobbly? It’s natural. Engage that core for balance. This isn’t just about keeping you steady; it also acts as a shield for your lower back.

Tip: If you’re new to this and need some added stability, don’t hesitate to use a chair or wall for support.

Squat For Runners – 5. Figure-four Squat

This variation targets the glutes and legs (just like the standard squat) but with the added bonus of stretching out those often-ignored glutes.

In other words, It’s a squat and a stretch at the same time.

Figure-four squats are also ideal for boosting balance and endurance in the quadriceps and glutes.

Proper Form

The Technique

Start with a mini-squat: keep your back straight your core on alert. Now, lift that right leg, bend the knee, and gracefully cross it over the left, resting the right ankle just above the left knee. There you are—in your poised starting position.

The Dive & Rise:

Dive into a squat. Feel the glutes stretching? That’s the magic! Push those hips back, and bend that left leg. Once you feel the depth, ascend back to your starting grace. Voilà—one rep down!

Steady as You Go:

If you’re thinking, “This feels wobbly,” you’re not alone! So, if balance is a challenge, grab a chair or align with a wall. And always remember—core engagement isn’t just about abs; it’s your balance guardian.

Tip: Aim for eight reps on each side for a full set. And don’t rush; the beauty lies in the stretch and control.

Let the Figure-four squat be your go-to for those days when you desire both muscle engagement and a sweet stretch. Let’s get squatting—and stretching!

Squat For Runners – 6. Sumo Squat

Sumo squats engage about every muscle in the lower body, including the quadriceps, glutes, hamstrings, and calves.

Not only that, this variation also increases muscular endurance and mobility.

The bodyweight sumo squat is challenging enough, but if you are looking for more, feel free to use a barbell or dumbbell for more training effect.

Proper Form

Mastering The Sumo Stance:

Start with Swagger:

Plant your feet wide apart, wider than your usual squat. Channel your inner sumo wrestler – toes confidently pointing outwards just a tad. That’s your power stance.

The Drop & Pop:

Now, dive! Ensure those heels are glued to the floor. As you descend, think “proud chest” to keep that back straight. Lower until those thighs greet your knees. Relish the depth, then ascend back to that mighty sumo stance. Looking for an extra burn? Throw in a pulse at the bottom.

Rep It Out:

Go for 10 to 12 reps to seal one set. As you groove into this move, you’ll feel the power of the sumo taking over!

Incorporate the Sumo Squat into your routine and feel the comprehensive engagement it offers. From strength to flexibility, it’s all wrapped in this one squat style.

Squat For Runners – 7. Squat Jumps

Add a plyometric effect to your squat by incorporating this variation into your training arsenal.

The squat jump hits the core hard, targets just about every other muscle in the lower body, and will push your endurance and cardio conditioning to the breaking point.

Proper Form

Why Squat Jumps?

Elevate Your Heart Rate: This move doesn’t just sculpt your legs; it gives your heart a workout too. Say hello to better cardio conditioning!

Core Galore: Feel that? That’s your core working overtime to stabilize during those jumps.

Total Lower Body Fiesta: It’s a party down there! Quads, hamstrings, calves – everybody’s invited.

Curious? Dive into it: Squat Jump Video Tutorial

Nail That Form:

Ready Position: Begin with that athletic stance we all know and love. Feel grounded and strong.

Dip & Drive: Now, descend into a half-squat, then – boom! – power up with all your might. Aim for the clouds!

Graceful Landing: Remember, you’re a ninja cat – land softly, absorbing the impact through bent knees. And voila, you’re set for the next explosive jump!

Repeat: Flow through 12 to 15 of these, and you’ve nailed a set.

Additional reading – How to Prevent Overuse Injury

Squat For Runners – 8. Single-leg Squat

This isn’t just another squat variation—it’s THE variation that will redefine strength and balance for you. A challenging move? Absolutely. Rewarding? You betcha!

Why Single-leg Squat?

Solo Spotlight: By using one leg, you really hone in on and target those muscles.

No Weights? No Worries! Perfect for home workouts or when you’re on-the-go. Your body weight is the only resistance you’ll need.

Balance Bonanza: Engage that core! This move requires (and builds!) fantastic balance and stability.

Mastering the Move:

Start in an athletic stance, but let’s mix it up. Ground yourself on your right foot, with the left one stretched out ahead.

Lower yourself, imagining you’re sitting back in a chair. How low can you go while keeping that form pristine?

Pushing through your heel, rise to the starting position. Feel the power of that solo leg!

Stay Tall and Proud: Keep that back straight—no hunching! Posture makes perfect.

Repeat: Target 8 to 10 reps on each leg, and you’ve aced a set.

Squat For Runners – 9. Frog Jumps

This plyometric variation is vital if you are looking to build faster running muscles and power.

I read somewhere that frog jumps are Usain Bolt’s favorite exercise.

Proper Form

Get into your athletic stance, squat down, and let your arms touch the floor. Remember: chest up, gaze forward.

Explode upwards, drive those knees high, and don’t forget to snap those feet together. Feel the power!

As you rise, swing your arms overhead. They’re not just for show—they’ll give you that extra push!

Cushion your landing in a deep squat. Use those legs to absorb the impact.

Repeat: Looking for a full set? Aim for 8 to 10 power-packed jumps.

Squat For Runners – 10. Squat Box Jumps

This is another plyometric squat variation that can help you build explosive power and turbo-charge your running speed.

Just be careful here, there is an element of danger in it, so be safe the entire time. This is, after all, an advanced squat.

Tread carefully.

Proper Form

Jump with Precision:

Stand in front of a sturdy platform. Feet hip-width apart, arms ready for momentum.

Drop into a squat, then explode up, aiming to land softly on the box. Engage your core; this is key!

Land gently in a half-squat on the box. Balance is crucial!

Jump off, but be controlled. Land soft, ready for the next rep.

Challenge Yourself: Feeling unstoppable? Up the box height for a tougher challenge. But remember, always be safe!

Rack up those reps! Shoot for 8 to 10 to finish a set.

Squat For Runners -11. Overhead Squat

This is one of the most sought-after moves in the CrossFit world, and it’s famous for one reason: it delivers.

The overhead squat is vital for improving athletic movement, whether you are a recreational runner or an elite athlete.

Nonetheless, they require high degrees of balance, strength, and flexibility.

So be careful and only do the overhead squat once you have mastered the above variations (and the front squat as well).

Proper Form

Setup: Assume a confident stance, feet shoulder-width apart. Hold a barbell overhead with a grip wider than shoulder width. Your arms should be fully extended.

Steady: Engage your core, ensuring stability. Remember: this squat tests balance, too!

Descend: Push your hips back and squat down, ensuring your arms remain straight and the bar stays aligned overhead. Your hips should sink below your knees.

Rise & Shine: Push through your heels, extending your hips and knees to return to the starting position.

Flexibility & Form: It’s essential to have a limber lower body and strong core activation for this squat. Don’t rush; aim for precise movement.

10-12 reps make a set.

Squats for Runners – The Conclusion

Here you have it!

I hope you liked my 13 squat variations list. Just make sure to start doing them as soon as you can.

In the meantime thank you for reading my post.

Feel free to leave your comments and questions below.

Cheers

David D

The Best Leg Workout for Runners – 8 Lower Body Exercises To Improve Running Performance

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runner doing Legs Strength Exercises

Are you looking for the best leg workout for runners?

Then you have come to the right place as I’m sharing with you a serious of lower body exercises that every runner should do.

But, first things first, why should bother with strength training

Here’s the truth.

As a runner, strength training in the gym is no longer an option—it’s a necessity.

I cannot emphasize it enough.

If your goal is to prevent injury and become the best runner you can be, then you should strength train.

If you really want to improve your race times and become the best runner you can be, and I dare say it again, you need to strength train.

In other words, if you consider yourself a runner, then you should run to the strength room as well.

No buts, and no coconuts about it.

I am sharing short but effective leg strength workout for runners you can do in the gym to help keep your muscles working in harmony and prevent running injuries.

The right lower body workout routine should make them strong and bulletproof your lower body from common overuse injuries, like runner’s knee and stress fractures and other ailments.

New to Running? Start Here…

If you’re serious about running, getting fit, and staying injury free, then make sure to download my Runners Blueprint Guide!

Inside this guide, you’ll learn how to start running and lose weight weight the easy and painless way.

This is, in fact, your ultimate manifesto to becoming a faster and a stronger runner.

And you want that, don’t you?

 Click HERE to check out my Runners Blueprint System today!

Don’t miss out! My awesome running plan is just one click away.

Click HERE to get The Runners Blueprint System today!

The 30-Minute Leg Workout For Runners

Perform these 8, runner-friendly, exercises and the workout routine I’m sharing with you below to build strong, powerful legs.

Leg Exercise for Runners 1 – Lunges

Targeted Muscles: Glutes, quads, calves.

Begin by standing with your feet shoulder’s width apart while resting a bar on the back of your shoulders, or holding dumbbells at the side.

That’s your starting position.

Next, take a giant step forward with your right foot, keeping your left foot planted on the ground.

Bend your right knee at a 90-degree angle, while simultaneously lowering your left leg toward the floor.

To complete one rep, push back up to the starting position and switch sides.

Do 10 to 12 reps on each side to complete one set.

Aim for five sets.

Leg Exercise for Runners 2 – Calf Raises

Targeted Muscles: The calves.

Begin by standing with your heels hanging off the edge of a step or a sturdy box, holding two dumbbells by the side.

Make sure to stand as tall as you can with the back straight the entire time.

Next, drive the balls of your feet into the step, then raise your heels as high as you can, pause for a count of three, then slowly lower the heels down to the starting position.

Aim for five sets of 12 to 16 reps to complete one set.

Feel free to up the ante by increasing weight and number of reps if the exercise is not challenging enough.

Additional resource – Maintaining muscle during marathon training

Leg Exercise for Runners 3 – Squats

Targeted Muscles: Quads, glutes, calves and core.

Assume an athletic position with feet shoulder-width apart, toes pointing slightly outward, and back straight.

Next, place a barbell across the back of your shoulders and traps, then squat down, bending the knees, until your thighs are parallel to the ground, pause for a moment, then push back up through your heels to return to starting position.

That’s one rep.

Make sure to keep your knees tracking over your toes through the squat motion.

Do 10 to 12 reps to complete one set.

Aim for five sets.

Additional reading – How to Prevent Overuse Injury

Leg Exercise for Runners 4 – Sumo Squats

Targeted Muscles: Inner thighs, and quads.

Assume a wider stand with the feet pointing further out than they would with the classic squat.

Make sure to load a barbell of a challenging weight and place it across the back of your shoulders and traps.

That’s the starting position.

Perform the sumo squat by sitting back until your thighs are parallel to the ground, then slowly come up to starting position.

Make sure to keep your back straight and knees tracking over the toes the entire movement.

You should feel your inner thighs on fire during this exercise; otherwise, you are not doing it right or are not using enough weight.

Do five sets in the 10 to 12 rep range.

Leg Exercise for Runners – 5 – Leg Presses

Targeted Muscles: Quads, glutes, calves, hamstrings.

Climb into a leg press machine, and place your feet hip-width apart on the platform.

Make sure that your heels are flat with the toes facing a bit outward.

To perform the move, slowly lower the platform until your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle, then press the platform back up until your legs are nearly straight.

Please don’t allow for a full locking in the knees.

Do five sets of 12 reps each.

Leg Exercise for Runners 6 – Single-leg Deadlifts

Targeted Muscles: Hamstrings, glutes.

Stands tall with feet hip-width apart and hold a pair of light dumbbells in each hand.

That’s the starting position.

Next, bend at the hips and raise your right leg behind while engaging your core muscles, then hinge forward and gradually lower your torso down as far as possible, pause for a second, then return to starting position.

Shoot for 8 deadlifts on each side to complete one set.

Aim for 5 sets.

Leg Exercise for Runners 7 – Lunges With Rotations

Targeted Muscles: Quads, glutes, calves and core.

Stand with feet wide and parallel, grab two light dumbbells with arms straight out sideways, then step forward into a lunge.

Next, lower your body into the lunge and rotate your torso 90 degrees to the right, then another 90 degrees to the left.

Next, take another step forward and repeat the motion.

Aim for 10-12 reps on each side to complete one set.

Do 5 sets.

Leg Exercise for Runners 8 – The Cable Knee Drive

Targeted Muscles: Hip flexors and glutes.

Begin this exercise by securing a strap around your right ankle then attaching it to the low cable pulley.

Next, while standing 1 to 2 feet away from the stack on one leg, drive your right knee explosively up in front your chest.

Do 10 to 12 reps on each side to complete one set.

Aim for five sets.

Additional resource – Clamshells for runners

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The Best Leg Workout for Runners  – Conclusion

Here you have it! This is an amazing leg workout for runners you can do a few times a week reap huge gains.

This is a really powerful leg workout for runners. But you need to put it into action ASAP. The speed of implementation is what matters most.

Here are moret strength exercises for runners.

In the meantime thank you for reading my blog.

David D.

Featured Image Credit – OK Photographer via Flickr