Coach's Note from Kevin

Benefits of Cross-Training for Runners

Cross-training is any sport or exercise that supplements your main sport -- in this case, running.  Whether you're a beginner or an experienced marathoner, you can benefit from cross-training.             

Here  are several reasons why runners should cross-train:

•You'll maintain or even improve your cardiovascular fitness.  Many cross-training activities are great cardiovascular workouts, so they build on those similar benefits of running.

•You'll avoid getting bored with running.  Running day after day will eventually burn out even the most hard-core runner. Cross-training gives  runners a much-needed mental break from their sport, which is especially important for those training for long-distance events such as marathons.

•It reduces your chance of injury.  By balancing your weaker muscles with your stronger ones, you'll help reduce your chance of injury. Participating in low-impact cross training activities, such as swimming or water running, will also lessen the stress on your joints, which are often a sore spot for runners.

•Change your route and routines.

•You're bound to get bored or burned-out if you run the same roads week after week. Switch up your route or even the time of day that you run. Go for a run before work in the morning, if you usually run in the evening.

•Run for fun. You don't have to run your heart out at every practice. Sometimes it's fun to run at an easier pace than your race pace and just enjoy the run. It may give you the freedom to run with someone you don't usually run with, like a spouse and gives you the opportunity to get to know other participants on the team.