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How to use Periodisation in your training
If you have trained for an endurance event, or have been focused on strength training, the likely hood is that you will have heard about Periodisation as a way of organising a fitness training plan. The purpose of this post is to give you a better idea of what it is, why it is used…
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5 Best Isometric Exercises for Runners
Unlock the benefits of isometric exercises for runners, beginners to advanced runners. Isometrics strengthen without joint strain, enhancing endurance, speed, and helping with injury prevention. Start using five core exercises like the plank and side plank. Build a dynamic routine that you can incorporate into your overall running programme. For easy tracking, find the “5…
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Hypertrophy vs Strength Training: What Are The Differences?
There are some key differences between training for hypertrophy vs strength. Hypertrophy refers to increasing the size of the muscle, which is done by increasing the overall volume of your workout (sets x reps). Strength training refers to increasing the ability of a muscle to produce force, which is done through lifting heavier weights (above…
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Top 5 Strength Exercises for Cyclists
While riding your bike is undoubtedly the most essential part of your training as a cyclist, incorporating strength and conditioning exercises offers several additional and specific benefits that cannot be achieved through time spent on the bike alone. So in no particular order, here are my top 5 strength and conditioning exercises for cyclists:
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5 Reasons to use Calisthenics
In a world of high-tech exercise machines and flashy fitness trends, there’s a form of exercise that harks back to the basics – Calisthenics. Derived from the Greek words “kallos” (beauty) and “sthenos” (strength), calisthenics is a workout regimen that harnesses the power of bodyweight exercises to build strength, flexibility, and overall fitness. It’s an…
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How to fit Strength & Conditioning into your plan
The benefits of strength and conditioning for endurance athletes are well-documented and ultimately translate to better performance at races. And yet, in spite of this, many still fail to prioritise strength and conditioning within their overall programme because of time constraints. In this blog I suggest a practical way to ensure you’re fitting in just…
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Shin Splints, what you need to know.
Shin Splints, or more correctly Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS), is a very common running related ailment and particularly common in newer runners but not exclusively. Before applying the information in this blog post, be aware that the information is general and therefore may or may not be appropriate for you. Also, there are other…
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Swimmers Strength & Conditioning exercises
Similar to other performance sports, swimmers benefit hugely from targeted and focused Strength & Conditioning in support of the technical and event specific training they undertake in the pool. But unlike running and cycling, some swimmers worry that that Strength & Conditioning may be counterproductive to their overall performance A common belief being that they…
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Understanding Tempo in Strength Training
In the beginning we are delighted that we can lift that dumbbell safely (your workout doesn’t conclude in casualty, which is a good thing). You refine your form. You become consistent. You even throw in a few more exotic variations of the classics (get you!). Life is good! So you explore “intensity” by either increasing…