Cross Training for Running

If you enjoy running and want to improve your speed and endurance, creating a cross training routine can be very beneficial. Cross training also prevents injuries by allowing your body to recover from your primary sport while still maintaining a level of fitness.

As many runners know, days and days of constant running with no breaks can often lead to fatigue, injury and boredom. Injuries such as plantar fasciitis and IT band syndrome are often the result of overuse and not giving yourself enough rest.

While you can maintain your ability as a runner by continuing the same old routine, cross training with other sports is a great way to improve. Here are a few ways you can incorporate cross training into your fitness routine.

Weight Training

Weight training is one beneficial way to become a better runner and keep your body conditioned and balanced. Use weights and weight machines to build the muscles in your calves, quadriceps and hamstrings to improve your running. You should also make sure to work your arms, back and abdomen on alternate weight training days to keep your muscle development even and your entire body strengthened for running.

Yoga

Practicing yoga builds strength, relaxes the mind and lengthens your muscles. An avid runner knows that muscles can get really tight when a stretching routine isn't included in the training program. You can take a yoga class or workout at home with a DVD two or three times each week to stretch and lengthen your muscles. Keeping the muscles flexible and loose helps prevent common injuries related to running.

Cycling

Because  riding your bike is low impact, it's a great way to maintain your fitness, even when you are not able to run because of injury or because you need a mental break from running every day. Cycling allows you to cover more ground and so you can work it into your daily schedule such as riding to work or riding to the store instead of using your car. 

Other Aerobic Activities

Other activities such as swimming, rowing and walking are also great ways to maintain your fitness level and stay fresh for your running.