Why Exercise When You Already Run?

There are three good reasons to add exercises to your running regimen. First, certain exercises can help you prevent - or recover from - injury. For example, over pronation can lead to painful runner's knee. A combination of appropriate running shoes and exercise can help alleviate the problem. Second, exercise and gentle stretching help promote flexibility. Many injuries result from tight, inflexible muscles. And inflexibility hampers performance. Simply put, you'll run better if you're flexible. Finally, running builds certain muscle groups, but neglects others. Exercises can strengthen the neglected muscles, promoting overall physical balance.