Cross Training

Runners can achieve significant benefits, and reduce or avoid chance of injury by including cross training into running training plans. Many plans call for 1-2 days (workouts) per week performing crosstraining activities. 

Check out Jordan Metzl’s book Running Strong for activities to improve your performance and prevent injuries.

Benefits of Cross Training

• Exercise without direct impact on joints from running (giving legs and feet a rest day)
• Stronger, more flexible muscles throughout body – working, strengthening  different muscles than when running
• Something different and fun to break up the monotony of only running every workout day

Examples of Cross Training Activities

• Indoor or outdoor biking or spin classes
• Swimming
• Deep water pool running (with a water floatation belt)
• Weight training
• Yoga and stretching for runners
• Elliptical machines / Zero Runner
• High Intensity Interval Training