I have a secret for improving my running: cross-training with other disciplines, such as swimming, cycling or yoga. The benefits are immense and my body thanks me every day. Discover all the benefits of cross-training!
Run faster, run more, run longer...
That's the magic formula to compete against the best runners in the world in SquadRunner! You want to become a stronger, more experienced runner by training more and more... But it's hard to escape from accumulated fatigue and repeated injuries. Boogie has the solution!
Well, try the magic of cross-training!
Gradually add to your weekly plan 1 or 2 sessions (30min-1h) of other sports that are good for the runner such as cycling, swimming, fitness, yoga, cross-country skiing (if you are lucky enough to live in the mountains), muscle strengthening or even skipping!
Amongst all the benefits that this variation of discipline will give you, you will find :
Cross-training will help you gain economy of movement! You are less crushed on your supports, you stay more in line, you preserve your energy for longer, you go faster and longer. You can work on different muscle groups in a less traumatic way. Go and ride for an hour without too much effort to replace an n-th running session, you'll see!
A busy week with X km on your counter or a lack of energy after a big race? Take the plunge and do a little swimming! You can rest your legs with a pull-buoy, or build them up with 0 shock with fins.
Alternatively, a good stretching or yoga session will do you a world of good.
Want to add a running session to your weekly plan? Start with 1 hour of cycling and work your way up to every other week of running/bicycling. Want to take your long runs in stride? Combine cycling and running from time to time: 1 hour cycling + 1 hour running.
There's nothing better than a good body support to protect the spine against the endless shocks of running. Or reinforced thighs to protect the knees... We pedal, swim, girdle, ski, jump rope: we strengthen ourselves to absorb as much shock as possible during our runs.
Cross-training allows you to vary the terrain, the courses and the settings. You get out of your routine. You feel more fulfilled and motivated than ever!
Suffering in running is easy to accept because you love running. But pedalling on a cool morning (very cool, too cool?), or gritting your teeth as you count down the endless seconds when you're doing the front crawl, or not getting discouraged by a few difficulties in the first few swimming sessions,... well, here's a series of sessions to work on your mind in a different way!
Cross training will fit perfectly into your training plan, or in a recovery period after a big race. It is also an option for optimal maintenance during your annual (or bi-annual) breaks or when recovering from an injury.
Convinced? ;)
Ah, I forgot another "sport" in cross training. REST. It is an integral part of your training and should not be neglected!
Listen to yourself and trust your feelings. Your body is magic, and it will surprise you again and again by pushing its limits! But you are the magician.