Building the Engine: My Strength Workouts
Strong bodies aren't built overnight. Here is a peek into the foundational movements—squats, pull-ups, and heavy lifting—that keep me injury-free and ready for my next run.
A simple but effective Monday morning workout at home. Just back to basics with dumbbells for strength and a pull-up bar for upper body power. Consistency is everything.
My journey with push-ups. They have never been easy for me, but I keep working on them. It is not about being perfect, it is about being doable and getting stronger one rep at a time.
Working on my pull-ups with band assistance. This is a great way to build the necessary strength to eventually do unassisted pull-ups. It never gets easy, but we keep at it.
Finishing a workout strong with barbell squats in the Smith machine. Squats are a cornerstone of my training for building powerful legs for running.
Conquering a Monday morning workout with overhead presses and push-ups. Starting the week with a strong session sets the tone for everything else.
Feeling good after a solid back workout. A strong back is crucial for posture, running form, and overall strength. This is what consistency and hard work build.
A strong Monday morning workout featuring Bulgarian split squats. This exercise is fantastic for building single-leg strength and stability, which is essential for runners.
About this collection
You’ll see plenty of pull-ups and squats in these clips, but don't be fooled by the highlight reel. I’ve battled fractured bones and asthma, so my training is entirely focused on resilience rather than aesthetic perfection. If you are looking for a structured way to build a functional foundation that supports your running or everyday life, this is exactly how I approach it.
People often think of strength training as just hitting the gym to lift heavy, but for me, it's about building a body that lasts. Whether I'm training for a Hyrox event or just showing up to run at Cubbon Park, the engine I build on these mats matters. My strength workouts prioritize compound movements—deadlifts, push-ups, and pull-ups—because these recruit multiple muscle groups, making you stronger for real-world demands.
I don't believe in perfect form on day one. You’ll see me using resistance bands for assisted pull-ups or focusing on single-leg stability drills because injury prevention is the real goal. I’ve navigated foot fractures and asthma, so my programs are designed to accommodate limitations while consistently moving toward strength.
Why focus on these specific movements?
- Squats & Lunges: Non-negotiable for anyone who runs. They build the leg strength needed for explosive starts and endurance on long routes.
- Push-ups & Pull-ups: Essential for upper body power and posture, which keeps you efficient as you fatigue on the road.
- Core Work: It’s more than crunches. We focus on stability, which is the missing link for most runners struggling with niggles.
I train across Bengaluru—from the energy of HSR Layout to the green stretches of Cubbon Park. My sessions aren't just about counting reps; they’re about moving better so you can live better. If you’re ready to start building your own engine, reach out, and let’s get to work.
Shanthi Krishnan
Hi, I'm Shanthi. I’m a mom of two and a coach who believes that fitness is a 'jatre'—a festival of movement, not a chore. I don't care about six-packs; I care about building a body that can handle everything from a marathon to chasing my kids.
What’s your fitness goal?
Let’s find the right workout style for you.
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