As a runner I know I should incorporate some strength training and stretching into my weekly workout routine. It’s not my favorite thing, but it’s like a vitamin – good for you!
I am a big proponent of doing what you like to do for exercise. The only way you’ll stick with something long term is if you actually enjoy it. While strength training or stretching may not be as fun as running, it will ensure you are more well rounded and fit to avoid injuries so you can continue to run for a long time.
And it will be easier if we do it together. Plus, it keeps us honest 
So, I created a run, eat, strength train, repeat calendar that will easily slip in a day of strength and a day of yoga every week in March. It is intended to work with your current running life.
Here is the first month of RunEatRepeat’s Monthly Workout Calendar. It starts off easy but we’ll step it up next month!
4 days of running a week. Stick to your own training plan for that.
1 day of strength training and abs. All you need for this is one set of 3 to 10 pound free weights. The strength routine and abs are below.
1 day of yoga – This can also count as a 2nd strength training day if you take a challenging class. You can use my fave “Yoga for Runners’” video or take a class.
1 complete day of REST, but if you are tired use the yoga day for light stretching
Click here for printable version
Yoga for Runners – 25 minute session
Each week I’ll have more tips – so stay tuned for that.
If you don’t like running, it’s okay. We can still be friends and you can incorporate this into your workout routine of choice.
Do these new moves this month and let’s check in here each Friday to stay accountable. Next month we’ll switch up the strength training and abs and maybe even add in a little foam rolling action.
![110 percent[4]](https://runeatrepeat.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/110-percent4.gif "110 percent[4]")
Question: Are you in or in the way?
I do not even know how I ended up here, but I thought this post was good.
I do not know who you are but definitely you’re going to
a famous blogger if you aren’t already 😉 Cheers!
I’m on day 4 🙂
I like to do a pre-run core workout as well. It serves as a bit of a dynamic stretching session too. I do several kinds of planks, supine holds, donkey kicks, fire hydrants, double eagles and maybe one or two other things. I have been doing this for a few months and have definitely noticed benefits.
Looks like a great training plan for March. I need to increase my running, but the weather hasn’t been cooperating. I’ve just been spinning alot to keep my endurance levels up along with adding more strength training.
Strength training is SO key — took me long enough to realize this. Poor body…
I am in! I have been looking for something to boost my workouts and get ready for racing season! Can’t wait to see what tips you post weekly!
I am in it to win it! I’ve been letting my yoga slip and slide lately, and noticing some weird-o tightness in my hips. I totally appreciate having a schedule: if I put something on my calendar it will actually happen, otherwise I just end up saying: “dang, I haven’t strength trained since the last pope”
Yay, Im so in 🙂 very exciting!!
Do you have a job? I’m a new reader and am just curious
Right now ‘RER’ is my job. I also do freelance writing when it comes my way. I know it’s not something I’ll always be able to do, but I’m very fortunate right now.
I am just getting into a fitness routine. I’m loving running but finding it so hard to develop a strength training routine. I might try this out.
Thanks!!
I am in! Why oh why is it so hard for us crazy runners to stretch??
I know! I’m the worst with stretching!! Hoping this will keep me on track.
I need to be in!
Ohhhhh…. Love me some foam rolling!
I love / hate it 🙂
I am so in!!!! This is something that i’ve failed to stick with forever….strength in numbers!
=)
great idea! thanks for the calendar. 🙂
I’m IN, assuming my foot heals quickly! If not running, definitely in the stretching. I’ve learned through physical therapy how important it is & I must admit I’ve never given it enough focus.
Get well soon!
I’m in! Awesome. You are my new favorite running/fitness blogger by the way. So fun. Love the GIFs. Haha
I’m training for my first full in April, love your lighthearted motovation!
I’m in! Strength training is so important for runners and it’s a good way to add variety to workouts.
This is perfect timing – I was planning on making a schedule to incorporate both strength AND yoga into my running program for March. Thanks!
I often suck at doing strength training as well! Awesome idea! I was supposed to get up before work today and go to the gym. I slept 30 minutes later and now there is no gym for me…guess it is a forced rest day!
Totally in! I love to strength train but I am really loving your workouts, can wait to start them!
Yeah! Thanks for joining Elizabeth!
I LOVE strength training! I have had a hard time limiting it so I don’t overdue it with the running. I usually like to strength train 2 days/week while I’m training for something…which my 3rd half is on the books and that training starts monday! EEP!
This is awesome! I wanna redirect everyone who asks me about starting running to this page. As I am elite, people often ask me to make them a training plan when they want to run, but I find it hard to remember what its like as a beginner who hasn’t been doing those exercises and running a lot for years. This will be perfect!
Okay I have to say, I’m just really excited to see someone from La Salle here – I graduated in 2007!
Thanks Tina! Yes, please send ’em my way 🙂
Totally in! I am all about incorporating more strength training with my runs– but it can be easy to just leave it out. This will be perfect!
I’m in!! I decided to run my first half-marathon in two weeks (because I’m crazy) so I definitely need to stay injury free!!
In! I’ve been needing to plan out my training for Grandma’s 1/2 Marathon, so this is just the right motivation to finally do it. Thanks!
This is great! I always intend to do strength and yoga but it never seems to happen. I’m making the March commitment right now!
Good! Thanks for playing Melissa.
🙂 Oh been meaning to ask ya what your favorite running short is? Its warming up where I live now and I got some shorts at old navy but their compression shorts ride up like no other and its annoying! I want to find short ones that will stay in place!!!
Im in!! But can you explain how to do the dumb bell row, inch worm and spider crunches please!!
Will do in a separate post 🙂
I’m in! I suck at coming up with my own strength stuff so love when people share 🙂 Thanks lady!
I’m in! I will probably be in my way too, but mostly I’m in. I really like your blog. I have really been trying to get back into running and doing races. This plan will help motivate me. Thanks!
Yah! Glad you’re joining Cassie 🙂