Thursday, July 14, 2011

Importance of Cross Training

I recently finished my first ever running training plan. I didn't follow it exactly, but I learned a lot. For example, I suck at motivating myself to run after work. By time I cook, get kids in the tub, clean up a little, the day is gone and I am pooped (or insert other useful excuse here).

So this time around I am more realistic and smart about my new 10K plan. That's right, I threw it out there..I am training for a 10K!!

Turns out on my last training plan I was missing a major key. I have been doing things totally wrong!!


I did not include cross training in my weekly schedule!

Actually after reading other running blogs and articles, I feel kinda dumb that it never occured to me to do other forms of exercise besides running. It might not seems to make sense at first, but cross training actually will make you a better runner! Here's why:

REDUCES INJURY!! Doing other sports will lessen the strain on the muscles you use while running. Running is high intensity, high impact. Pounding on your joints day after day will eventually take it's toll. Especially for a newbie.

AVOID BURNOUT!! Let's face it, running gets boring at times. We have all been there..in a running rut. Taking a day off to do another form of exercise will make you maybe miss running a little bit, recover mentally, and help you give it your all on the next run. Monotony sucks.

MUSCLE BALANCE!! No one wants to end up with buff hamstrings and calves, but puffy untoned arms and abs. It's important to lift weights to target specific areas and tone, bicycle for cardio/quad workout, swim for cardio/arms/quads/back, yoga for stretching, ect.


To get started with all this cross training stuff, I went for a bike ride with the mamasita tonight. What a nice change and great cardio workout. I really enjoyed it. Variety is the spice of life, right?! Nod your head and say "Right, Katie!"

We did 4.6 miles in 29 minutes. I have no clue if that is good or not. I will have to do some more research on biking. Great, I am a newbie all over again!!

2 comments:

Melissa said...

Cross training is so much fun! I rotate between running, walking, and bike riding 5 out of 7 days during the week. I've lost 10 lbs in two months without a diet!! You should look into a bike trailer for the kiddos. Adds more resistance, gives you an even better workout, and you are getting quality time with the fam!

Mom said...

I like the idea of cross training..with my ADD (LOL) keeps me from getting bored! AND it seems to make it easier to run distance. For me running on the treadmill is sooo much easier than running outside, so hopefully cross training will help with that too.