After switching up my training, I’m feeling stronger, faster and more confident
Posted: 7 March 2013
by Connie Tope
During my second PT session at Matt Roberts’ studio last week, Jon Roberts gave me some advice that has totally changed my mindset for the Zest Challenge with Alpro. He said, ‘A lot of people run to get fit, but actually you have to be very fit to run.’
I get anxious about the ever-increasing distances I have to run each week, but after hearing him say this I’ve decided to concentrate more on improving my strength and mobility and hopefully the kilometres will take care of themselves.
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Watch Connie talking about her goals and motivation
Jon mentioned that to run well you need a strong core and leg muscles, so my training sessions have been focused on exercises that build these areas up, like kettle bell swings, squats and burpees. Although the moves are tough, I like doing them because it breaks up my training – I find treadmill running so boring.
Jon also said, if you want to get stronger, it’s better to lift heavy weights and only manage a few reps rather than doing loads of reps with less weight. I’m not only thinking about the 10k run at the Zest Challenge with Alpro though – I’ve got the assault course on my mind too. I think building up my strength is going to be important for taking on those obstacles.
Lift weights to burn fat
There’s no doubt my training is paying off: yesterday I ran 5k on the treadmill in 32 minutes. That’s the fastest I've ever done it! In January it would’ve taken me 37 minutes. I feel like I have a longer, more powerful stride than I did two months ago.
Mostly I’m just glad that the Challenge is still three months away. I can’t wait to see how fast I’ll be then!
Pick up the April issue of Zest, out now, to learn more about Connie and her road to the Zest Challenge!
Read Connie's blog on cold weather running
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