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Kobe Bryant’s Strength Coach Tim DiFrancesco on Injury Prevention (+ an announcement!)

Studies show that up to 75% of runners get injured each year, and many continue to cycle through nagging, chronic issues. Learn how to develop durability as a runner to avoid becoming part of this frustrating statistic!

Consistency is key to progress for runners of all levels. But it’s impossible to be consistent if you’re always suffering from running injuries. Runners often find themselves re-injured when training ramps back up if the initial problem isn’t properly addressed. Staying healthy over the long haul requires durability, but running alone isn’t enough to accomplish this.

While there are no hacks to successful running, there is an established way to prevent injury and allow consistent progress: strength training. It should come as no surprise given that this is the Strength Running site, but many runners still fail to make time for strength training that improves their running and longevity in the sport.

On the podcast with me this week to discuss strength training and durability is Dr. Tim DiFrancesco. Tim has a bachelors in Exercise Science & Athletic Training and a doctorate in Physical Therapy, and spent over 6 years as the head strength and conditioning coach for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. 

Tim DiFrancesco on building your durability with Run Strong

After leaving the NBA, Tim developed TD Athlete’s Edge, a nationally renowned performance facility known for its scientific approach to training, nutrition, and recovery. He was a previous guest where we discussed how lifting can help you reach your potential as a runner, and today we are introducing a new program to help you do just that: Run Strong.

Tim and I have worked together to build a durability program that will keep you healthy and maximize your running performances. We’re offering a special launch discount of 15% with code RUNSTRONG15 that’s valid through Sunday, December 10. Go here to check out the program and everything that’s included.

In addition to introducing our newest program, Tim and I also discuss:

  • Why durability needs to be built and be runner specific
  • What it means to balance an acute and chronic workload 
  • Why strength training allows you to make more “mistakes” in your running
  • How resistance training improves tissue performance and running technique
  • Using complementary strength training to make your running feel better
  • The zones of lower body durability

Enjoy our conversation and learn how you can Run Strong!

Subscribe to the podcast in Apple PodcastsSpotifyStitcheriHeartRadio, or Google Play

Links & Resources from the Show:

Thank you DrinkLMNT!

A big thanks to DrinkLMNT for their support of this episode! They make electrolyte drinks for athletes and low-carb folks with no sugar, artificial ingredients, or colors. They are offering a free gift with your purchase at DrinkLMNT. And this does NOT have to be your first purchase. You’ll get a sample pack with every flavor so you can try them all before deciding what you like best. 

DrinkLMNT’s products have some of the highest sodium concentrations that you can find. Anybody who runs a lot knows that sodium, as well as other electrolytes like magnesium and potassium, are essential to our performance and how we feel throughout the day.

My favorite flavor is watermelon salt, but citrus salt is also a banger. I’m drinking one a day now to help me get enough fluids in our dry Colorado air. It’s tasty and delicious and I find that I’m not peeing every 45 minutes throughout the day, which might be an indication I wasn’t eating enough sodium.

There’s now mounting evidence that higher sodium intake levels are not unhealthy – and athletes need substantially more than your typical sedentary person. Of course, ask your doctor if you’re worried. But for those athletes running outside in the heat, an electrolyte replacement makes a lot of sense. So check out DrinkLMNT to try their new flavor or get a free sampler pack.

Thank You Previnex!

After resisting most supplements for the better part of my life, I’m cautiously changing my tune. I’m less than a year from being a Masters runner and in my personal life, I’m optimizing for longevity. I want to be my healthiest self for as long as possible and I’m excited to partner with Previnex to make that happen.

Previnex uses the most bioavailable, clinically tested ingredients, the optimal form and dose of each ingredient, pharmaceutical grade manufacturing, testing of raw ingredients and finished products. For every purchase you make, they also donate vitamins to kids in need.

I’ve been taking their Immune Support and multivitamin over the last month and  I feel great. I have more energy and clarity, not to mention peace of mind that I’m giving my body what it needs.  I believe Previnex works and I hope you experience the same benefits as I do. Use code jason15 for 15% off your order at Previnex!

Get Stronger & Run Healthy

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