Running involves a series of single-leg landings and powerful push-offs. Consequently, the strength of each leg is crucial for upper body stability, proper hip alignment, and overall stride efficiency. Canadian Running Magazine highlights four simple exercises designed to help runners build strength, enhance muscle control, and minimize imbalances.

Research published in the journal Frontiers in Physiology indicates that runners who regularly incorporate single-leg exercises into their routine show significant improvements in balance, acceleration speed, and push-off power after even a short training cycle.

Runners should choose movements that feel natural and integrate them into their routine several times per week. If one leg feels weaker, dedicate more training time to that side rather than striving for an equal number of repetitions for both legs.

This set of exercises is suitable for performing before or after each run. It is particularly beneficial for the preparation phase of the VnExpress Marathon Hai Phong 2025, scheduled for 21/12. The race, now in its third season, features some adjustments to the 5 km and 10 km courses, and expects to draw numerous runners aiming to achieve new personal bests.

Hai Long