Workshops and Events

Glute Activation for Runners

Why You Need It and How to Do It

Taught by Jae Gruenke, GCFP
April 29th, 2026, 7:00 PM
Patagonia – Salt Lake City
2292 Highland Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84106
FREE but RSVP required

Go to a physical therapist for help with a running injury and chances are good you’ll be told you’re not using your glutes and need to activate them when you run. Unfortunately glute strengthening you do in the gym (with bridges, clamshells, squats, etc.) doesn’t necessarily translate to running. You just end up carrying around more muscles you don’t know how to use. However when you understand the main job your glutes do when you run (hint: it’s not to push you forward!), learning to use them is pretty easy and running itself becomes a great strengthening exercise. Plus you stay healthier and run better.

In this evening’s workshop, Jae Gruenke will teach you what your glutes do, how to let them do their job, and how to even out activation on both sides for better movement symmetry overall.

The workshop will include a small amount of running and an indoor movement lesson, so come dressed to run but don’t expect a major workout. If you’re injured but still able to run for a few minutes without negative consequences, the workshop will be fine for you to participate in.

Head to Foot (at the Barefoot Shoe Expo)

Taught by Jae Gruenke, GCFP
May 16th & 17th, 2026, 11:00-11:30 AM (same workshop both days)
Schaumburg Convention Center
Adventure Hall
1551 N Thoreau Dr
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Cost: $15-$20 for the Expo, then the workshop is free

The way you carry and move your head either limits or liberates your feet. Learn how to improve your posture in a movement-specific way to reduce plantar and achilles stress, improve arch and big toe function, and build balanced forefoot strength in walking and running.

The workshop will include a small amount of running and an indoor movement lesson, so come dressed to run but don’t expect a major workout. If you’re injured but still able to run for a few minutes without negative consequences, the workshop will be fine for you to participate in.

Jae will be offering a few individual lessons for runners while she’s in Chicago. To learn more and schedule a time click below.