Running is more than just a sport; it’s a passion, a lifestyle, and for many in Sacramento, a way to connect with the vibrant local community. Whether you’re training for your first 5K or aiming to cross the finish line of a marathon, staying healthy and injury-free is crucial to achieving your running goals. That’s where physical therapy comes in—a science-backed approach to optimizing performance, preventing injuries, and recovering effectively.
At Lakas Physical Therapy & Performance, we’re dedicated to supporting runners at every stage of their journey. Our specialized programs, including the Resilient Runner Class, are designed to empower you with the tools and techniques you need to excel. From personalized assessments to strength training tailored specifically for runners, we’re here to help you unlock your full potential. In this guide, we’ll explore how physical therapy can transform your running journey and why it’s an essential part of marathon success.
The Importance of Running Physical Therapy
Running may seem simple—just put one foot in front of the other—but it demands significant strength, endurance, and biomechanical efficiency. Without proper preparation, runners are prone to a host of injuries, such as shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and IT band syndrome. These setbacks not only hinder your performance but can also derail your training altogether.
This is where running physical therapy becomes invaluable. By working with a runners physical therapist, you can:
- Identify and address weaknesses or imbalances in your body.
- Develop a personalized plan to prevent injuries before they occur.
- Enhance your running form to reduce unnecessary strain on your joints and muscles.
At Lakas Physical Therapy, we go beyond standard care to deliver tailored strategies that fit your unique needs. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or looking to improve your performance, our team combines cutting-edge techniques with evidence-based practices to ensure you’re always moving forward.
Understanding the Resilient Runner Program at Lakás
One of the standout offerings at Lakas Physical Therapy & Performance is the Resilient Runner Class. This weekly strength training program is specifically designed for runners of all levels—whether you’re a beginner gearing up for your first race or an experienced marathoner chasing personal records.
The program is built on evidence-based principles, focusing on three core areas:
- Strength Training for Endurance Runners:
- Designed to complement your running training plan, the program helps you build the muscular endurance and power needed to perform at your best.
- Exercises target key areas like the glutes, hamstrings, and core to enhance stability and efficiency.
- Injury Prevention:
- Through targeted strength training and mobility work, the Resilient Runner Class helps reduce the risk of common running injuries.
- Coaches use assessments to identify potential problem areas and adjust workouts to suit individual needs.
- Performance Optimization:
- By improving biomechanics and overall strength, participants can expect better running economy, faster speeds, and greater confidence on race day.
Classes are held at WarriorZ Health & Fitness in Elk Grove and led by expert Fleet Feet coaches in collaboration with Dr. Kim Manlangit of Lakás Physical Therapy & Performance. The inclusive nature of the program ensures that runners of all shapes, sizes, and skill levels can thrive.
Whether you’re just starting your journey or preparing for your next marathon, the Resilient Runner Program is a game-changer for anyone looking to achieve their running goals.
Also read:
How Physical Therapy Enhances Performance and Prevents Injuries
Every Runner Needs to Strength Train: Join Our Resilient Runner Program
The Missing Piece in ACL Rehab That Nobody's Talking About
Key Components of the Resilient Runner Program
The Resilient Runner Program at Lakás Physical Therapy & Performance is designed to address the unique needs of runners, integrating physical therapy principles with tailored strength training. Here’s a closer look at the program’s key components and how they can elevate your running performance:
- Strength Training for Runners
- Strength training is the backbone of the Resilient Runner Program. It focuses on building the muscular power and endurance needed to support efficient, injury-free running.
- The program incorporates exercises targeting critical muscle groups like the glutes, hamstrings, and calves, which play a pivotal role in maintaining proper running form and absorbing impact forces.
- Participants benefit from functional movements that mimic running mechanics, ensuring a seamless transition from the gym to the road or trail.
- Personalized Workouts
- No two runners are the same, which is why the program emphasizes individualized coaching. Fleet Feet coaches and Dr. Kim Manlangit assess each participant’s strengths, weaknesses, and goals to create a tailored approach.
- This level of customization ensures that new runners, seasoned marathoners, and everyone in between receive the support they need to excel.
- Injury Prevention Strategies
- Runners are no strangers to injuries, but the Resilient Runner Program is designed to keep these setbacks at bay. By focusing on biomechanics, flexibility, and strength imbalances, the program minimizes the risk of common issues like shin splints and Achilles tendinitis.
- Regular assessments help identify potential red flags early, allowing for immediate intervention to keep you on track.
- Performance Optimization
- The program doesn’t just aim to prevent injuries—it’s also about making you a faster, more efficient runner. Through improved strength and biomechanics, participants often see noticeable gains in their running economy and speed.
Whether you’re training for a marathon, a local 10K, or simply looking to enjoy running without pain, the Resilient Runner Program equips you with the tools to achieve your goals.
Marathon Training and the Role of a Physical Therapy Clinic
Training for a marathon is a significant physical and mental undertaking. Beyond logging miles, it requires strategic preparation to ensure your body can withstand the demands of race day. This is where a physical therapy clinic like Lakás Physical Therapy & Performance becomes an essential part of the process.
- Gait Analysis for Marathon Success
- Efficient running form is critical for marathon training, as it reduces energy expenditure and minimizes the risk of injury.
- At Lakás, runners benefit from expert gait analysis, which involves a thorough evaluation of your biomechanics. This process identifies inefficiencies and suggests corrections to improve your form and overall performance.
- Building a Personalized Training Plan
- With the guidance of a runners physical therapist, you’ll receive a comprehensive plan tailored to your goals, strengths, and areas for improvement.
- Whether your aim is to cross the finish line for the first time or achieve a new personal best, the team at Lakás works to align your physical therapy and training plans seamlessly.
- Strengthening for the Long Haul
- Strength training plays a pivotal role in preparing your body for the rigors of marathon running. By addressing weak points and enhancing endurance, physical therapy helps fortify your body against the repetitive stresses of long-distance running.
- Recovery and Adaptation
- Recovery is just as important as training when preparing for a marathon. Through targeted recovery protocols, such as soft tissue mobilization and stretching, Lakás helps runners bounce back quickly from intense training sessions.
- The clinic also emphasizes proper nutrition, hydration, and rest, ensuring that your body is ready for peak performance on race day.
Marathon training is a journey, and with the support of a dedicated physical therapy team, you’ll be equipped to handle every challenge along the way.
Recovery and Injury Rehabilitation
Even the most seasoned runners are not immune to injuries. From minor setbacks like muscle strains to more significant issues such as stress fractures or Achilles tendinitis, injuries can derail your training and dampen your enthusiasm. That’s where the expertise of Lakás Physical Therapy & Performance shines.
Comprehensive Injury Assessments
Advanced diagnostic tools, such as gait analysis and mobility tests, provide actionable insights into what might be causing pain or discomfort.
- Personalized Recovery Plans
- Recovery is not one-size-fits-all. Whether you’re dealing with a mild injury or recovering from surgery, Lakás designs individualized plans that align with your specific needs and goals.
- These plans incorporate a mix of manual therapy, strength training, and mobility exercises to restore function and get you back to running stronger than ever.
- ACL Rehabilitation for Runners
- For runners recovering from ACL injuries, Lakás offers one of the most comprehensive rehab programs in Sacramento. Their ACL Return to Sport Testing ensures that athletes meet objective, data-driven benchmarks before resuming high-impact activities.
- The hybrid training approach provides ongoing support through remote coaching, monthly in-person testing, and real-time symptom management. This ensures a confident, progressive return to running.
- Supporting Long-Term Recovery
- Recovery doesn’t stop when the pain subsides. At Lakás, the focus extends to long-term strategies that prevent re-injury and build resilience.
- This includes education on proper warm-ups, cool-downs, and the integration of strength training as a regular part of your routine.
Through their innovative recovery protocols, Lakás Physical Therapy ensures that every runner can overcome setbacks and return to the sport they love, stronger and more prepared than ever.
Why Sacramento Runners Trust Lakás Physical Therapy
Lakás Physical Therapy & Performance has become a cornerstone for Sacramento’s running community. Here’s why runners consistently turn to them for support:
- Expertise in Running-Specific Care
- With a dedicated focus on runners, Lakás provides specialized care that addresses the unique demands of the sport. Whether you’re aiming to improve your 5K time or complete a marathon, their programs are designed with your goals in mind.
- Evidence-Based Approach
- Programs like the Resilient Runner Class are grounded in the latest research on strength training and injury prevention. This ensures that every session is effective, safe, and tailored to your individual needs.
- Collaboration with the Running Community
- Lakás partners with local organizations like Fleet Feet and WarriorZ Health & Fitness to create a supportive network for runners of all levels. From group classes to community events, they foster an environment where every runner feels welcomed and empowered.
- Individualized Attention
- Unlike traditional physical therapy clinics that may juggle multiple patients at a time, Lakás prioritizes one-on-one care. This ensures that every runner receives the undivided attention needed to achieve their best results.
- Proven Results
- Countless runners have achieved personal milestones, reduced injury risks, and enhanced their performance through Lakás programs. Their combination of cutting-edge techniques and compassionate care makes them a trusted partner in the Sacramento running community.
The Road to Marathon Success
Training for a marathon is more than just clocking miles—it’s about creating a strategic plan that prioritizes your body’s strength, resilience, and recovery. Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in helping runners successfully cross the finish line and meet their goals. Here’s how Lakás Physical Therapy & Performance supports marathon runners in Sacramento:
- Building a Solid Foundation
- Before you start ramping up mileage, it’s crucial to establish a strong base of strength and endurance. The Resilient Runner Class helps you develop the core, glute, and leg strength needed to support your body through the long training cycle.
- By focusing on biomechanics and addressing muscle imbalances, Lakás ensures that you have the stability and power required to handle the demands of marathon training.
- Enhancing Endurance Through Smart Training
- The physical therapists at Lakás work hand-in-hand with you to optimize your running form, making each stride more efficient. This translates to better endurance during long runs and reduces unnecessary energy expenditure.
- Incorporating evidence-based strategies such as tempo runs, hill workouts, and strength training, Lakás helps marathon runners build stamina while protecting their joints and muscles.
- Strategic Recovery
- Recovery is a cornerstone of marathon success. From soft tissue mobilization to stretching routines, Lakás offers therapies that promote muscle repair and reduce soreness after intense training sessions.
- Cold therapy, mobility work, and individualized cooldown plans ensure that your body stays fresh and ready for the next challenge.
- Race Day Preparation
- As marathon day approaches, Lakás helps runners fine-tune their strategies. This includes perfecting your warm-up routine, addressing any lingering discomfort, and offering guidance on pacing and nutrition.
- With a personalized approach to tapering and mental preparation, Lakás ensures that you’re physically and mentally ready to tackle the 26.2 miles.
By integrating physical therapy into your marathon training, you not only enhance your performance but also reduce the risk of injuries, ensuring a successful and enjoyable race day.
Running is a journey, and every step forward requires strength, strategy, and resilience. At Lakás Physical Therapy & Performance, we’re committed to helping Sacramento runners unlock their full potential. Whether you’re training for your first marathon, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to run stronger and faster, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to take your running to the next level?
Join the Resilient Runner Program or schedule a consultation with our team today. Together, we’ll help you achieve your running dreams with confidence and strength.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is running physical therapy, and how does it help runners?
Running physical therapy is specialized care designed to optimize a runner’s biomechanics, prevent injuries, and enhance performance. It includes assessments, strength training, and injury rehabilitation tailored to the unique demands of running.
How does the Resilient Runner Class improve performance?
This program focuses on strength training, injury prevention, and biomechanics. By addressing weaknesses and building endurance, it helps runners improve their form, speed, and overall confidence.
Is the Resilient Runner Program suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! The program is tailored to all levels, from first-time runners to seasoned marathoners. Coaches adjust workouts to match individual abilities and goals.
What injuries can Lakás Physical Therapy treat?
Lakás treats a wide range of running-related injuries, including shin splints, plantar fasciitis, IT band syndrome, Achilles tendinitis, and stress fractures. They also specialize in post-surgical rehabilitation and ACL recovery.
How does gait analysis benefit marathon runners?
Gait analysis identifies inefficiencies in your running form, helping you make adjustments that improve performance and reduce injury risk. It’s a vital tool for marathon preparation.
Can I join the Resilient Runner Class if I’m recovering from an injury?
Yes! The program can be adapted to support recovery while helping you regain strength and confidence.
What is hybrid training for ACL rehab?
Hybrid training combines in-person assessments with remote coaching, offering a comprehensive approach to ACL recovery. This ensures consistent progress and support beyond traditional rehab timelines.
How do I sign up for the Resilient Runner Program?
Visit the Resilient Runner Sign Up Page or contact the clinic directly to inquire about program availability and scheduling.
Where is Lakás Physical Therapy located?
Lakás Physical Therapy & Performance is located in Sacramento, serving the local running community with personalized care and expert coaching.
Why should I choose Lakás for my marathon training?
Lakás offers a unique combination of one-on-one care, evidence-based strategies, and a supportive community to help runners of all levels achieve their goals.
