Cross Training

When I was younger, and coaches would have us cross train, we’d all just do it. It was simply what one did, not what one thought about beyond how heavy the weights could be or some other measure of endurance.

When I began working out on my own in my 20s and 30s, I didn’t bother consciously cross training. Different exercise classes were fun, so we’d try those out. Running was something to be endured on the treadmills of the world to try to keep the weight off or train for a 5K. Yoga was new and exciting, as was Pilates. But nothing stuck, per se; cross training always seemed a lark.

I hadn’t truly thought about the implications of mindful cross training until recently, upon signing up to run a half marathon in April. I’ve known and openly discussed with others that my lats begin to ache at around mile 5 whenever I run long distances. Everything else feels fine, it’s pretty much my back that hurts. In reviewing different half marathon training plans, they all suggest (but to not require) cross training, which includes core and upper body work outs, as well as stretching.   I figured, what the heck…I need something to help me and my lats get through the second 10K of the half marathon in order to finish.

So for the past couple of weeks, as discussed here, I’ve been mindfully including yoga, core and upper body workouts, as well as additional cross training through walking. The intention is to get this 40+ year old body in some semblance of shape to be able to finish the 13.2 miles of a half marathon by April 2012. From what all the plans say, it does seem possible if one is mindful about one’s training schedule.

I’m not positive that it’s working, but on my last 10K (6.1 mile) long run, my back ached LESS than it had in the past. I feel that that is some sort of achievement in itself. G-d willing, additional cross training will only improve the outcomes.

Do you routinely cross train? If so, email me and let me know what you do and how it helps your performance!