Archive · 6 Nov 2025
Full-Body Conditioning and Core Exercises Crucial for Runners, Says Dr. Kaustubh Radkar
Running marathons is tough, and a doctor who has run many of them says that runners need to do more than just run.
He suggests a special workout that strengthens the whole body, including the belly muscles (core), twice a week.
This helps runners stay strong and avoid getting hurt.
He also says it’s important to slowly run more miles each week, not too much too fast, and to take some easier weeks to rest.
If a runner feels super tired all the time, has a fast heart rate even when resting, or gets sick a lot, they might be training too hard.
Being flexible and able to move well also helps prevent injuries and makes running feel better.
Dr. Kaustubh Radkar recommends a full-body conditioning program for runners, to be done twice weekly.
Core exercises are highlighted as a key component for improving running performance and stability.
Runners should increase mileage by 10-20% weekly, incorporating a recovery week every third or fourth week.
Signs of overtraining include persistent fatigue, elevated resting heart rate, sleep disturbances, and frequent illness.
Mobility and flexibility training are crucial for injury prevention and improving running posture.
- Who
- Dr. Kaustubh Radkar, India's 'Ironman poster boy', an Ironman certified coach and a health care consultant in sports medicine and cardiac rehabilitation.
- What
- Stressed the importance of a full-body conditioning program, including core exercises, done twice a week for runners, and outlined strategies for safe mileage increases and signs of overtraining.
- When
- As marathon events approach in November and December.
- Where
- Pune, India.
- Why
- To help runners improve performance, build endurance, and prevent injuries by incorporating strength, mobility, and flexibility training.
- Expert
- Dr. Kaustubh Radkar (India's Ironman poster boy, Ironman certified coach, Sports Medicine and Cardiac Rehabilitation consultant)
- Key Recommendation
- Full-body conditioning program done twice a week
- Important Component
- Core exercises
- Mileage Increase Rule
- 10-20% rule per week, with a recovery week every 3-4 weeks
- Additional Training
- Mobility and flexibility training are important for injury prevention and posture
- Overtraining Signs
- Persistent fatigue, elevated resting heart rate, trouble sleeping, frequent illness, unexplained pain, appetite changes, digestive issues