Improving Your Runs Through Cross Training

There is more to running than just the miles for your 5k or 50k. We hope the following information is helpful in maximally achieving your goals. Sleep schedule and a diet that is dialed in will definitely help your runs.

Maybe your running speed isn‘t improving as you want or you find yourself struggling at the races with higher elevations. This is when cross training can be a game changer. Cross training allows you to improve your running efficiency, durability and form through focus on possibly neglected areas in your training block.

It can also prevent any potential injuries, by reducing muscle stiffness, improving mobility, and furthering the art of recovery.

What is cross training?

Cross training can be any activity that you do outside of running. It can also be lower impact activities such as biking, swimming, stretching, weight training, or mobility training. There’s no right or wrong exercise per se, but he may find it more helpful to do what you find most enjoyable.

What is the benefit of putting cross training into my running routine?

Another outcome from cross training is to reduce injury by addressing possible muscle imbalances. These diverse lower impact options can be great to improve overall fitness objectives (for example cardio, upper body, core strengthening).

Cross training can also be used to continue working out after you are injured. Pool exercises can even help alleviate swelling and pressure in your joints while still continuing to workout. Doing yoga can also be a beneficial option. It’s key that you stretch out those muscles, remedying any tightness. Otherwise, you could find yourself being susceptible to leg and foot injuries. These lower impact workouts allow a non running focus to address flexibility and endurance of your muscles.

Cross training can really improve running performance as each activity has different benefits. So keep that in mind as you pick an exercise to add to your routine. For example, weight lifting can strengthen your core and joints, while increasing power and speed.

Even though some cross training activities may have equipment needs, such as weightlifting and pool exercises. You don’t need to have a lot of equipment to get a good workout in. It’s very easy to find ones that simply require you to move your body. In fact, a lot of the exercises in our newest Youtube video on lateral hip exercises have no equipment needed at all.

Check out this link to go the video!

Get Started with Anti-Fragile Physical Therapy

This November, we’re focusing on the transformative power of cross training on your runs.

Are you a runner looking to improve your performance and prevent injuries? Our comprehensive Strength and Mobility Assessment is designed just for you!

We are excited to offer a FREE Runners Strength & Mobility Assessment this month, which includes an assessment of your strength and mobility, as well as an opportunity to answer any questions about training and plan out your next steps.

Don’t miss this chance to enhance your fitness journey with expert guidance. Book your free assessment today, and let’s start building a stronger, more resilient you!