TRAINING EQUIPMENT FOR RUNNERS
Your running isn't just about the miles you put on the pavement. What you do alongside – strength and mobility training – greatly impacts how your body handles stress over time and how efficiently you run. A few well-chosen tools at home are often all it takes to incorporate this training into your routine.
At RunningXpert, you'll find a wide range of home workout equipment, whether you need dumbbells, kettlebells, resistance bands, a suspension trainer, or a good exercise mat.
WHY STRENGTH TRAINING MAKES YOU A BETTER RUNNER
The stronger your body, the lower the risk of injuries. Stronger legs perform better when running, while stronger tendons and ligaments reduce the chance of serious injuries from twists or falls. A strong core minimizes lateral movements and provides better posture towards the end of your run, while strong arms contribute to better propulsion.
It doesn't mean you have to replace runs with heavy gym sessions. Even two shorter strength training sessions a week, focusing on legs, hips, and core, can make a noticeable difference over a training period.
TRAIN SMARTER IF YOU HAVE LOWER BACK PAIN
Many runners mistakenly believe that running is harmful if you already have lower back pain – but that's not the case. Research suggests that movement generally helps more than complete rest, and no single form of exercise is significantly better than others for alleviating back pain.
If you have lower back pain, our
guide to back pain and running
provides an overview of what research actually says, along with specific strength exercises that often help. Resistance bands and lighter dumbbells are a good place to start if you want to begin this type of training at home.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT TRAINING EQUIPMENT FROM THE START
It doesn't require large and advanced machines to benefit from strength training at home – often, you can manage with smaller, simple tools. Adjustable dumbbells are a good alternative to a barbell, as they take up less space and allow you to train progressively with different weight classes in the same set. Kettlebells work well as a supplement or replacement and open up for more demanding exercises like swings and snatches.
If you need equipment that's easy to take with you, whether training outdoors or at home, a suspension trainer is an excellent choice – it can be attached to almost anything and is particularly effective for core and full-body training. If you want inspiration on which equipment offers the most value, we've tested various tools and compiled
the best training equipment for home workouts
in one guide.
BUILD YOUR COMPLETE TRAINING AND RECOVERY SETUP
Training equipment is only part of the picture. If nutrition and energy are also part of your routine, our selection of
sports nutrition
covers everything from fuel before your run to supplements that support recovery afterward.
If you already feel soreness or tension, our selection of
recovery equipment
works well with a strength training routine, helping you recover between sessions instead of just pushing through.
If you want to track how strength training impacts your running, a
running watch
makes it easy to see if your efforts pay off in terms of pace and endurance over time.
FIND YOUR TRAINING EQUIPMENT AT RUNNINGXPERT
Building strength alongside your running is one of the most effective ways to stay injury-free and consistent. Browse the categories above to find the tools that suit your training – whether it's dumbbells, bands, a mat, or a suspension trainer.
If it's your
running shoes
that need a check-up, you'll also find our full range with us.
FAQ
What training equipment is best for home workouts?
It's always a good idea to start with a few basic tools, so you're covered for most exercises and can train all muscle groups.
Which resistance band should I choose?
Opt for a set with various strengths, so you can train your different muscle groups optimally, and consider wider models specifically for leg and glute training.
Can I use training equipment outdoors?
Yes, most equipment is easy to take outdoors. A suspension trainer is particularly suitable, as it can easily be attached to trees, doors, or lampposts.
Can you run if you have lower back pain?
In most cases, yes. Research does not suggest that running worsens back pain – movement and targeted strength training often help more than complete rest.
How often should runners do strength training?
Two sessions a week focusing on legs, hips, and core are often enough to notice a difference without affecting your running training.