330. Why Most Runners Never Get Strong (Even If They Lift)

330. Why Most Runners Never Get Strong (Even If They Lift)

From Running Lean by Patrick McGilvray

May 1, 2026 · 19 min

About this episode

This episode discusses why many runners fail to gain strength from weight lifting and offers insights on effective strength training for better running performance.

If you’re a runner and you’re lifting weights…you probably assume you’re getting stronger. But what if you’re not? What if all that time in the gym isn’t actually translating into better performance, fewer injuries, or improved endurance? In this episode, Why Most Runners Never Get Strong (Even If They Lift), I’m breaking down exactly what’s going wrong. Because it’s not about whether you lift—it’s about how you lift, why you lift, and whether you’re doing the things that actually force your body to adapt. Most runners are checking the box…going through the motions…playing it safe. And safe doesn’t build strength. Today, we’re cutting through all of that. I’ll show you what real strength training looks like, why most runners miss the mark, and what you need to start doing differently if you actually want to get stronger and become a better runner. Become a Leaner, Stronger Runner If you’re putting in the miles but not getting the results you want… something is off. Maybe you’re running a lot but the weight isn’t changing. Maybe you feel tired all the time. Maybe running actually feels harder than it should. And deep down you know this: You shouldn’t have to grind this hard just…

People in this episode

Host: Patrick McGilvray

Topics covered

  • strength training
  • running performance
  • injury prevention
  • endurance
  • weight lifting
  • fitness coaching

Keywords

  • runners
  • strength
  • weight lifting
  • performance
  • injuries
  • endurance
  • fitness
  • coaching

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