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Lead Stories: Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Q&A: Abdominal exercises and related info for runners

Posted March 31st, 2007 at 11:34 AM by Jim Fortner

Section: Running & Training, Health & Fitness, Exercise

Jim Fortner is a weekly, guest contributor to TFS. Also check out his own personal running and advice site: “Jim2’s Running Page”.

Strengthening the abdominal muscles is important for runners. One function of the abs is to counter the force exerted on the pelvic structure by back muscles in order to stabilize the pelvis structure and maintain an erect posture.

Running strengthens back muscles, but not abs. If a runner doesn’t exercise his/her abs to strengthen them, an imbalance can develop. Stronger back muscles can overpower the abs and result in a tilted pelvis, or forward hunch, when running …
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Keeping sane during injury

Posted January 13th, 2007 at 4:00 PM by Paul Petersen

Section: Running & Training, Injury & Rehab

Running injuries present many challenges. Getting the injury diagnosed and implementing a rehabilitation program are at the forefront, but keeping your SANITY during the potentially long layoff is often overlooked and can be very problematic.

We injury-ridden runners have all had our “Shining” moments: All elliptical and no run makes Jack a dull boy. All elliptical and no run makes Jack a dull boy. All elliptical and no runs makes Jack a dull boy. All elliptical and no run makes Jack a dull boy. All elliptical and no run makes Jack a dull boy…You get the picture.

Although injured runners going through withdraw usually aren’t homocidal, we do become the next worst thing: grouchy, frustrated, depressed, and, yes, slightly insane. Maybe it’s the loss of structure and stress release to our day, maybe it’s the lack of “runner’s high” in our chemical diet, maybe it’s weight gain due to decreased activity, maybe it’s the loss of part of our social network. Whatever it is, any spouse of an injured runner can tell you that we are no fun to be around!
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Washboard abs and why they are important for runners too!

Posted December 30th, 2006 at 4:00 PM by Carolyn Hershler

Section: Running & Training, Cross Training, Health & Fitness, Exercise

Toned arms, strong legs, and chiseled abs are all factors that come into play when searching for the ideal athletic body. But what’s the ideal body type for a runner?

A strong abdominal section may seem to only be important aesthetically, but it actually is of the utmost importance for runners. Having a strong mid-section can provide an assortment of benefits for runners, such as: providing a strong core, improvement of running form, as well as a reduction of stress on the back.

With the correct combination of ab strengthening techniques, one can become a stronger runner (and have that beach-ready body you always wanted!).
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