Running might look simple, but the strongest runners know the secret to better performance is not just logging miles. The best runners incorporate strength training, Pilates, yoga and core conditioning into their routine to improve stability, efficiency and recovery.
From boutique reformer Pilates studios to performance focused core workouts, these are some of the best classes runners should add to their training plan. Whether you are preparing for a marathon, chasing a faster 5K time or simply trying to stay injury free, these workouts can help you run stronger and smarter.
Why Cross Training Classes Are Essential for Runners
Running places repetitive stress on the body, particularly on the hips, knees, calves and lower back. Strength and mobility classes help balance out those demands by targeting muscles that running alone does not fully develop.
Core strength is especially important. A strong core improves posture, stabilises the pelvis and helps runners maintain efficient form, particularly as fatigue sets in. Mobility based workouts such as Pilates and yoga also help improve flexibility and joint stability, supporting better movement patterns and helping reduce the risk of injury. Adding structured strength and mobility training to your routine can lead to faster times, improved endurance and a more resilient body overall.
The Pilates Sphere
The Class: Located in the heart of Richmond, West London, The Pilates Sphere is a luxury boutique reformer Pilates studio offering expert led small group sessions in a calm, design led space. The studio specialises in reformer Pilates classes suitable for everyone from beginners to experienced practitioners.
Classes focus on controlled, low impact movements using reformer machines to build strength, improve flexibility and enhance stability. The Pilates Sphere offers six different class types, allowing members to progress and tailor sessions to their fitness level.
Why It’s Good for Runners: Reformer Pilates is one of the best cross training workouts for runners. It targets deep core muscles, glutes and hip stabilisers that support efficient running form. Strengthening these muscles can improve balance, posture and stride mechanics while reducing strain on the knees and lower back. The low impact nature of Pilates also makes it ideal for recovery days between runs.
How to Book: Click here
Les Mills Demand+
The Class: Les Mills Demand+ offers a 30 minute core focused workout designed to develop three dimensional core fitness through a series of integrated strength exercises.
Each class includes planks, lower abdominal endurance exercises, glute training, abdominal oblique work and back extensor exercises. These movements work major muscle groups from shoulders to knees, creating a strong and stable midsection.
Why It’s Good for Runners:This type of core-focused training is highly beneficial for runners because it strengthens the muscles that support posture, stability, and efficient movement. By combining planks, glute work, and lower abdominal and back exercises, it builds a strong, stable midsection that helps maintain proper running form, especially as fatigue sets in.
How to Book: Click here
Core LDN
The Class: Pilates CORE
The Lowdown:Rehabilitation focussed; progressive and tailored to your injury or goals; in depth knowledge of the body & movement.
Why It’s Good for Runners:A rehabilitation-focused, progressive, and tailored approach helps runners recover safely while improving performance by addressing the root causes of injuries like runner’s knee and Achilles tendinitis. By gradually increasing training load and customizing exercises to your body and goals, it builds strength, corrects movement patterns, and reduces the risk of future injury helping you return to running stronger and more efficiently.
How to Book: Click here
Hotpod Yoga
The Class: Hotpod Flow
The Lowdown: It turns up the dial on a typical yoga class, deepening the effects, with a soothing 37 degree heat, tranquil music, calming scents, glowing lights and relaxing beats coming together to provide a unique and totally immersive experience that benefits both mind and body.
Why It’s Good for Runners: Running can cause tight hamstrings, hips and calves. Hot yoga helps release this tension by allowing muscles to stretch more deeply in the heated environment. Improved flexibility can increase stride efficiency while reducing the likelihood of muscle strains. The breathing techniques used in yoga can also help runners improve focus and breathing control during races.
How to Book: Click here
Final Word
If you want to run faster, farther and with fewer injuries, cross training should be part of your weekly routine. Pilates, strength training, yoga and endurance classes all support different aspects of running performance.
Incorporating workouts like reformer Pilates, core conditioning and mobility focused yoga can help build a stronger, more balanced body that performs better on the road, track or trail.
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