The Joys of Tire Dragging !

This week we got back to the plain and simple workouts of tire dragging. I do believe this is probably the most old school method of building strength in runners. As a Strength and Conditioning Coach, I see this as an extremely valuable tool. Most traditional exercises programs are great for building muscle, but then you have to train that muscle to fire in the correct neurological sequence for improved running economy. With tire/sled dragging you have the strength building process occurring while running –How sweet is that!

Creative thinking is important with tire dragging so that it does not become a boring session. I like using “Musical Tires”. Have a variety of tire sizes and let your runners alternate from big to small tires. You will be amazed to learn how small changes in tire sizes will affect the amount of muscle recruitment. The best thing is going from a Kahuna tire to a small tire- you feel like superman and go flying down the track.

Another very skill that can be learned is linear running or what we call gliding. When beginning runners, are running with their tires, the tires tend to bounce or skip. When their technique improves the tires will drag smoothly no matter what speed or size of tire. So a runner can listen to the sound of his/her tire as a means of self –correction.  The simple act of having the rope across the front of your hips, will improve your sense of “running from the center” and becoming smoother. No need to go practice getting you CHI in order. Just go get a tire and rope.

So, there you have it. Stronger and more efficient running in 1 neat little package.

That is what I call training MO SMARTER!