Ryan Hall (olympic runner) flexing
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Olympic Runner Explains Why Strength Matters

ByDave

“Strength training makes you slow”

You’ve heard it a million times.

But study after study and practical application across all sports shows that strength training improves performance.

Check out this interview with Olympic Marathoner Ryan Hall. The discussion on strength starts at 22:15. I have listed my takeaways below the video

199 - Running, overcoming challenges, and finding success | Ryan Hall

  1. Meb Keflezhigi specifically trained the hex bar deadlift to increase his power-to-weight ratio going from 1.3:1 deadlift to bodyweight ratio to 3:1 or 2.7:1

    Meb’s team calculated that he needed to double his deadlift strength to increase ground force to increase his pace for his next marathon
  2. Ryan Hall previously underestimated the importance of strength training and short-distance intervals, even for marathons, for enhancing power and injury risk
  3. A shift is occurring where runners are migrating from minimizing all body weight, including muscle mass, to recognizing the importance of strength.

I'm a coach with a passion for helping athletes dominate the toughest selection courses in the world. Over the years, I've trained well over 100 athletes for Special Operations selection courses, including SFAS, RASP, Air Force A&S, BORTAC, SWAT, and MARSOC A&S. My mission is to bridge the gap between traditional performance training and the unique demands of tactical and military athletes.

I got my start coaching hybrid athletes, blending strength, endurance, and hypertrophy training to achieve peak performance. As I worked with more tactical and military athletes, I realized there was a need for a specialized approach tailored to the grueling physical and mental challenges of SOF selections. This realization drove me to focus on prepping SOF candidates for success, combining cutting-edge research, proven training methodologies, and real-world experience.

Whether you're preparing for selection, seeking to level up your fitness, or simply curious about what it takes to thrive in these elite environments, I hope you'll find the information I share helpful.