When I set out to train for my half marathon, I didn’t realize how much running would help my lifts. My goal was simple: improve my running enough to complete the race. I ran about three times a week, joined run club on Wednesdays, and continued with CrossFit classes. Sometimes, I scaled workouts (yes, I actually scaled!) because running left my legs too fatigued for heavier lifts.
Fast forward a few months, I not only completed my half marathon but exceeded my goal. And then, just two weeks later, I hit PRs on my snatch and clean & jerk. To say I was shocked is an understatement—I thought focusing less on strength training would make me weaker. But after doing some research, I learned that running is much more than just cardio.
Running works your entire body, engaging both large and small muscle groups. It also builds muscular endurance, which directly benefits CrossFit.
Here’s what I learned:
- Even short runs help: Adding just one or two miles a week can improve muscular endurance, leg drive, and core stability—all essential for Olympic lifts.
- Recovery matters: Taking a break from high-intensity strength training every day and incorporating another modality like running can give your body and nervous system a chance to recover.
- Confidence grows with progress: Watching yourself improve in a new area builds confidence, which is invaluable for every aspect of training.
So, if you’re hesitant, let this be encouragement to lace up and go for a run or even a ruck walk. I promise, adding some runs won’t kill your gains—if anything, it might just unlock new ones!
