One thing I realised when I came back to running after a break is that the exercise you do alongside it is almost as important as the running itself.<\/p>\n
Strength training can really level up your performance if you\u2019re trying to run faster because stronger muscles mean you can generate more force with every stride.<\/p>\n
Plus, when you are fitter, you use less energy so you can maintain your speed for longer.<\/p>\n
You may like<\/p>\n
When I saw this Instagram video, designed to help you increase your running speed I immediately saved it to give it a try.<\/p>\n
Created by running coach and professional ultra runner Yana Strese<\/a>, it involves five resistance band exercises that Strese says helped her run stronger, faster and injury-free. Here\u2019s the video.<\/p>\n How these exercises can improve running speed<\/p>\n To find out how these exercises can help, I turned to certified personal trainer Joey Jones from Way-Up<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u201cAll of Strese\u2019 exercises are designed to improve stride mechanics and neuro-muscular control,\u201d says Jones. \u201cIf you are trying to improve your times, training with these moves is a great place to start.\u201d<\/p>\n He pinpoints two exercises in Strese\u2019s video\u2014the ankle pump and single-leg knee drive\u2014that are particularly good for improving running speed.<\/p>\n