Before I began marathon training and before transitioning to hybrid training, I was focused on running and weightlifting. I did barbell squats, not with the goal of improving my running or increasing run time—just for leg strength and as a throwback to my powerlifting days. Eventually, I introduced air squats, which became a key part of my routine.

My hybrid training journey truly began after seeing a challenge on the YouTube channel "ThatsGoodMoney." The challenge had me doing 25 pushups and 25 air squats every minute for 10 minutes, totaling 250 reps. This challenge opened my eyes to the potential of bodyweight exercises and freed me from the belief that all training had to be done in a gym with weights. For 20 years, my running was limited to no more than 2 miles, but this challenge inspired me to develop my own system blending calisthenics, strength, and endurance training, which has been crucial for my NYC Marathon preparation.

I learned the term "Hybrid Training" from Nick Bare (@nickbarefitness), who has also been a significant inspiration for endurance training. Over time, I’ve evolved into what I call a hybrid trainer, combining air squats, barbell squats, hill sprints, running, upper body strength training, and flexibility training into a balanced routine. I often think back to my military basic training days, where nearly all the conditioning came from calisthenics, running, and stretching. Now, I use these different methods to not only build strength and endurance but also to enhance my overall fitness in ways that traditional running or weightlifting alone couldn’t provide.

Most recently, I hit a new personal record of 700 air squats in a row. This is a key part of my NYC Marathon training, and I explain exactly how and why I do this in my workout breakdown. Pushing through these types of challenges builds mental resilience, strengthens key muscle groups, and improves my running efficiency—giving me the solid foundation needed to perform at my best on race day.

For Beginners:

• Progression on a Walk: While walking, stop every 0.25 or 0.5 miles to perform 5-10 air squats. This method breaks up the walk and adds lower body strength work in small, manageable doses. For beginners, it’s an easy way to start building strength without feeling overwhelmed. Over time, increase the reps or decrease the distance between stops to challenge yourself further. This active interval training will help condition your legs and steadily improve your stamina.
• Progression: Gradually increase your reps or reduce rest time each week. Start with smaller goals, like 20 air squats in total, and work toward larger sets. The ultimate aim is to build up to 50+ air squats in a single set as you progress.

Key Moments:

• 00:00:00 - Introduction
• 00:00:44 - Strength for Distance Running
• 00:01:10 - Workout Details
• 00:02:03 - Key Benefits Overview
• 00:03:45 - Cardiovascular Endurance and Calorie Burn
• 00:04:50 - Mental Resilience and PR Adaptation
• 00:06:39 - Start of Calisthenics Training
• 00:07:56 - Breaking Through Plateaus
• 00:10:04 - Adding Hill Sprints
• 00:11:28 - Recovery Techniques
• 00:19:05 - Mental Aspect of Endurance

Michael Baker
GetUpEarlier.com
Strength Training and Nutrition Coaching

#Squat #AirSquat #NYCMarathon #tcsnycmarathon #Run #Lift #Hike #Yoga

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