When running does it really make a difference if you can do 30 sit-ups in a min versus like 50? If so what percent do your abs play a part in when running? I'm doing track and all I've been consistently doing is working on my abs, its too cold to run, and i mean it when its too cold, it feels like my ears are going to break off after walking outside for a few moments! But i know i should just suck it up...anyway, i just wanna know about the abs?
2007-02-07 07:21:00 · 10 answers · asked by Elle 3 in Sports ➔ Running
Running is a total body thing, and Abs are very important, but be sure not to ignore your obliques and back too. Your core provides balance and support while you run and a strong core helps prevent injuries (not to mention looks good). Also, don't forget about your arms. I know it may seem like running is all legs but its not. I am a distance runner and my times improved drastically after building upper body strength. It just makes you more durable, so you can run harder and longer.
If it is too cold outside don't run. Running is something you want to be enjoyable. I suggest giving it a try if its only like 30 or so out because once you get going you stay pretty warm, but I stay inside once it gets below 15. Just do whatever feels best to you and have fun. Just doing a core workout is a lot better than nothing, but I suggest startig to do lifting too.
2007-02-08 05:57:44 · answer #1 · answered by j12bash 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your abs play a part in stability when you run, helping keep your form. They play a part in keeping your spine straight as well. Just keep centered and try to run no matter how cold it is just warm up and stretch inside then go out and do some jumping jacks and go run wear a knit cap and sweat shirt and stay hydrated, keep the runs short maybe two miles and practice the sprint jog method.
2007-02-07 07:27:59 · answer #2 · answered by Kenneth W 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I applaud your dedication to the abs but it won't help much in the running department. I suggest you broaden your indoor workouts (if you must) to include upper body strength training. As anyone can see at world class track meets, doing well in the mile is basically a matter of upper body strength. I don't recommend bulking up to the extent you see on TV, but rather build strength without the bulk and your running will benefit.
Good Luck
2007-02-07 07:33:32 · answer #3 · answered by snvffy 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
strong abs inluding your back, eg a strong core is very important in running whether it's sprinting or distance running.
It helps to prevent trunk related injuries eg Hamstring tears,hip problems, helps for stride pattern(keeping proper leg range movement), and stride cadence(turnover). a stable trunk should also provide better balance and relaxation at high speeds. Athletes need to be able to hold their bodies in the ideal postural position for the complete duration of their event which involves the pumping of the arms and helps with muscle fatigue in your arms , back, neck etc.
2007-02-07 08:04:14 · answer #4 · answered by moglie 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
abs are VITAL to being able to run It wont help your quickness but its obvious... do leg lifts and you'll understand what I'm talking about. stand straight up pick your leg up like you were going to run and feel how ur abs get flexed. Having good Abs and being able to run go hand in hand.
2007-02-07 07:30:18 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
abs play. it keeps us balance and stable on the run. a flat abs keeps the runners center of gravity balance and stable. it connects the upper and lower body biomechanics.
2007-02-08 17:48:01 · answer #6 · answered by running_architect24 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
your abs, and especially your back, do play a part in running. keeping them in shape will help your form, but theres no need to over do it.
is there an indoor track you can run at? lots of gyms or YMCAs have them. we even have one at a local church gym, its free.
2007-02-07 07:32:08 · answer #7 · answered by Kutekymmee 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
abs are very important to help maintain your form at the peak of your performance when your body feels like jelly.
2007-02-08 13:01:51 · answer #8 · answered by cajusntrike 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
they support your upper body keeping you in good form preventing unnescessary movement
2007-02-07 11:49:15 · answer #9 · answered by hahree 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Abs are useless... your legs are the things doing all the work. Just make sure you're not too fat - otherwise your legs will have to do double work to haul your fat @$$ around
2007-02-07 07:24:55 · answer #10 · answered by LGT 3 · 0⤊ 7⤋