The Effect of Resistance Training on Uphill Running Economy and Biomechanics

Robinson, RM and Hahn, ME. The effect of resistance training on uphill running economy and biomechanics. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2026—The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of an 8-week resistance training program on level ground and uphill running economy (RE) in recreational runners and determine whether changes in RE were associated with changes in running biomechanics and lower-extremity muscle strength. Twenty-five recreational runners (12 female, age: 34.2 ± 13.2 years, mass: 70.4 ± 13.0 kg, height: 176.4 ± 9.2 cm) were randomly allocated to a resistance training or control group. The resistance training group completed 8 weeks of resistance training focused on the hip extensors, knee extensors, and ankle plantar flexors. Level ground and uphill (5 and 10% grade) RE, biomechanics, and isokinetic dynamometry tests were performed by all subjects before and after the intervention period. Despite a significant group-by-time interaction effect for plantar flexor strength ( p = 0.026), RE, joint work, and joint stiffness were not significantly affected by the resistance training program for any grade condition ( p > 0.05). Although some subjects did demonstrate changes in RE above the smallest worthwhile change, change in RE was not significantly correlated with change in strength or running biomechanics ( p > 0.05). Although numerous benefits for resistance training have been reported for endurance runners, coaches, health care providers, and athletes may need to explore other interventions to change RE or biomechanics.