Do You cross train?
Here’s a definition for cross training taken from google:
“Cross-training is athletic training in sports other than the athlete’s usual sport. The goal is improving overall performance. It takes advantage of the particular effectiveness of one training method to negate the shortcomings of another”
It’s valuable – it may be the missing link for your training.
You could look strong, but lack mobility
Or you could run far, but look like a twig
Even look fit, but not go up a flight of stairs without getting out of breath.
And that’s where cross training comes in…
Being wellrounded? Sort of.
Here’s an example: Runners run, right? Cross training would be yoga, or calisthenics, or weight training – its something different then running. It could even be – and most often IS – another form of cardio like biking, hiking, stair climbing, rebounding…
But these cardio cross trainings are different then running in one subtle (MAJOR) way – the airborne time..
See when we run, our bodies are airborne, theres a point in time when we’re not in contact with the ground…
When we land back and continue our next stride – that “landing back on the earth part” is the “pounding” that people refer to when running.
And it’s true, the force of gravity and our body weight landing on one leg, then the other, repeatedly over miles and miles – it adds up…
On the other hand, when we bike, hike, or strair climb – one foot is at least in contact with the ground AKA the “pounding” is less
Allowing runners to still get their cardiovascular endurance training while taking less of a toll on the body.
SO that means jumping rope, for runners, might not be the “best” form of cross training – why? Yeap, because of the constant pounding from the jumping up and down…
The body is dynamic, an intricate machine if you will, adapting – learning – growing….
Or dying.
Joey DiAndrea 