Short episode summary If you can feel the burn while working out, does that mean you can be a better runner? In this episode, Coaches Valerie and Caroline tackle the difference between activating the glutes and strength training.   Timestamps of big takeaways [00:25] Coach Caroline opens the show by asking Coach Valerie to explain activating the glutes and the difference between that and strength training. [00:48] Coach Valerie explains how when she was working out in her early days as a coach, the belief was that you had to “feel the burn.” Only if you were sore did that mean you got a good workout. [01:54] Muscle activation is the process of intentionally contracting a specific muscle, but it is different from strength training which loads the muscles to make them work harder.  [04:54] Many runners do not activate their glutes or hamstrings while exercising. In RunRX, we teach you how to activate the glutes and hamstrings. [05:55] Deadlifts are a great strength training exercise. Back in the day, Coaches Valerie and Caroline would use leg curl machines. What matters more than the exercises you do though, is learning how the muscles work. [08:04] We include strength training in the RunRX program because both standing and running require strength. Proper posture can also reduce stress on joints and muscles. Building foundational strength by understanding how to hold one's own body weight is crucial for running. Activation of muscles and correcting posture help runners optimize their performance. [10:50] Finally, there’s the self-care aspect. All of the things we teach are intentional because we’re all about improving running skills by becoming more efficient. [11:11] If you enjoy this podcast, please share it with a friend. We want to help all runners learn how to run pain-free.   Rate, Review & Subscribe Reminder Don’t forget to like and subscribe to our show. You can also rate and review our show on iTunes! We’re on Spotify as well, or you can listen to our show directly on Libsyn here.    Links to check out -- https://www.runrx.fit/ -- FREE 30-day reboot on YouTube by RunRX https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDPcF8ZrDdILC8bYyn2zR-4xvqKRzp2re -- Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/runrxfit/ and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/runrx/  -- Have questions? Email us at [email protected]