Should I Cross Train with my Running?

This week we are keeping it short and covering another common question we get from runners, should they cross train? Cross training is implementing other modes of training like biking or lifting into a training plan. The simple answer is yes, there are many benefits to cross training and it is too beneficial to ignore. However, there are always caveats. 

If a runner should cross train really comes down to what the goal of the runner is because specificity always wins. If you are trying to lose weight, cross training with weight lifting is immensely beneficial. It can help you maintain muscle mass as you are in a calorie deficit. If you are training for a long endurance event, cross training with biking can help you get long endurance rides without the impact stress of a 4 hour run. If you want to compete at running 5ks, and have limited training time each week, then doing a few hours of weight lifting isn’t going to improve your performance that much. If you are running to try to be healthy and age gracefully, then cross training is an absolute must. 

All of this is very simply put, cross training is good, as long as you: A) match the cross training to your goals, and B) have the extra time to do it. If your cross training is compromising your primary training (legs too sore to run from doing squats) then you need to reconsider how you are cross training. As always, know your goals and build towards those.