You'll Improve Your Posture
Ever notice how some distance runners always look like they're crouched and waiting for the starting gun, even when they're just waiting in line at the store? And that's to say nothing of how they look at the finish line.
Spending so much time in the same position—one that shortens your hip flexors and pitches you forward—tends to lead to premature old-guy stoop. By working the muscle groups running neglects, especially the back, shoulders, and yes, the glutes, you can uncurl yourself and start standing tall.
This isn't just more attractive; it improves your running too. Lat pull-downs and pull-ups open your chest, hit the neglected upper back, and put your head on top of your torso where it belongs. A strong core holds you upright, even when you get fatigued, so work those planks. And while strengthening your glutes, give a thought to stretching their antagonist muscles, the hip flexors and quads.
Strengthen the back side, stretch the front side. This is good advice for anyone, but especially runners!
