Cross Training Made Easy (sort of)

This entry was written on Oct 19, 2008 by our Running Guru Heidi Splete

Ideally, my weekly workout schedule includes some cross training. Cross training does more than diversify  your fitness routine; it can improve your running and help prevent injuries by working some of the muscles that you don't use as much when you run.

About two years ago, I started doing about 20-30 minutes of relatively low intensity, but steady, biking on a stationary bike 2 days a week, as part of a visit to the gym. I usually bring something to read, and I tell myself that this is a decent way to increase leg strength. But, stationary biking is pretty boring, unless you have a book or a TV. And personally I prefer to exercise outside as much as possible.

Today was a perfect, crisp fall day in my neighborhood, so this afternoon I dusted off my old bike, filled the tires, and went for about an hour's bike ride down a road that's closed to traffic on the weekends. Even though this is a road on which I often run, I find that I have a different perspective from the bike, and I enjoyed a more panoramic view of the changing trees.

And, my quads got a good workout! Riding your bike up a long, steep hill works your quads more than you might think, even if you think you are in good shape.  I hope that paying some more attention to strengthening my quads will help my recovering hamstring.

The moral of the story--remember that  even a pleasant afternoon's bike ride, counts as cross training. And you can take your non-running spouse or children along for the ride.

Happy Running!