Some interesting findings from running.about.com about hill running – which also works with hill repeats (see my blog post of yesterday – klick here).
Some runners don’t like hill running because it’s, well, hard. But running hills provides a lot of benefits to runners, so don’t shy away from them. Here are some of the ways you can benefit from hill running:
You’ll build strength.
Running inclines, either on a hill outdoors or on a treadmill, is a form of resistance training that builds up the muscles in your calves, quads, hamstrings, and glutes. Hill running strengthens those areas more than running on flat ground. You’ll also strengthen your hip flexors and Achilles tendons.
You’ll get faster.
You won’t get bored.
You’ll reduce your risk of injuries.
As you strengthen your leg muscles through hill running, you considerably reduce the risk of suffering from running-related injuries. More: How to Prevent Running Injuries
You’ll strengthen your upper body.
Uphill running forces you to drive your arms harder than you do when running on flat ground, so you’ll improve your upper body strength.
You’ll build confidence.
The more you run hills, the less intimidating they’ll seem when you encounter them on a race course. Your improved strength and technique on the hills will definitely give you a confidence boost when you’re racing.
@fight inner weak 