Regular training is an essential component of every athlete’s program, making muscles stronger, increasing endurance, and cardiovascular strength. But like all things, too much of a good thing is bad for your mind and your body. The easy fix for overtaxed muscles and a mind bogged down by monotony is cross training.
Cross training involves the incorporation of alternative exercises into your training program. If you are a cross country runner, then bicycling might be a good alternative. Football players might find the ease of an elliptical machine benefits their endurance. And softball players may find stairclimbing provides them with a great lower body workout. Whatever activity you chose, make sure it’s fun and that it doesn’t repeat the same movements your already perform on the field, court, or road.
Bicycling
Cycling is an amazing low to no-impact exercise that works well for athletes who run or walk. Cycling can be done on a stationary bike in your home or gym. It can also be an outdoor activity for those of you who enjoy a change of scenery and the challenge of navigating through the elements. The beauty of cycling is that you can work your cardiovascular system with little stress or impact on your joints.
Elliptical Training
The elliptical machine is perfect for any athlete seeking the benefits of running in a low impact activity. Elliptical training simulates the movement of running, without the jarring impact of road running. Elliptical machines are also adaptable, allowing you to train with forward or reverse movements to work opposing muscle groups.
Stairclimbing
Stairclimbing is an amazing way to get your heart rate up, while keeping injury and impact to your joints low. Gym or home stairclimbers are an easy and efficient way to get in your workout, monitor your heart rate, and track calorie burn. And for those athletes on the road, you can climb stairs at the stadium or in the hotel stairway.
