Cross-training

Cross-training means training in a sport that isn’t your main activity. For runners, that might mean swimming or cycling. For cyclists, it could be running, rowing, or strength training.

When you exercise, your heart doesn’t know whether you’re running or skipping - it just knows it’s working. That’s why cross-training is so effective for improving overall fitness.

Why cross-train?

1. Mix it up

Cross-training keeps things interesting. Doing the same activity repeatedly can get repetitive and lead to burnout. Trying something new can refresh your motivation.

2. Avoid injury

It helps manage training load. Different activities use muscles in different ways or reduce impact forces - giving your body a break and helping prevent overuse injuries.

3. Comeback from injury

Cross-training is a powerful tool during injury recovery, especially with overuse injuries. It allows you to maintain cardiovascular fitness while giving the injured area time to heal.

Don’t think of cross-training as a punishment. See it as a smart way to support your primary sport and stay fit.