Most of us have a few physical activities that we love, and when we have free time it’s what we always do. Activities such as running, golfing, tennis, swimming or cycling are great for your body and maybe even your social life. However, when you only participate in one sport you’re only using specific muscle groups for that activity. Research shows that athletes who cross train become stronger and reduce their chances of injury.
What is cross training? Cross training is any activity commonly associated with your sport that improves overall conditioning. It strengthens other muscle groups, ligaments and joints used in your favorite activity. It gives your body a break and allows for active recovery.
Here are 5 benefits of cross training:
- Improves overall fitness: You’ll get a more balanced development of your physical abilities. When you vary your routine, your strength, endurance, and flexibility will improve and create a more balanced physical self and better performance in your chosen sport.
- Reduces the risk of injury: Cross training reduces the risk of injury by using different muscle groups. When you participate in the same activity with no change, you increase the risk of overuse injuries such as tennis elbow and shin splints.
- Enhances cardio vascular health: Cross training improves your aerobic threshold (the point at which your body starts producing energy anaerobically). If you remain consistent you’ll boost your endurance and cardiac health. Activities such as cycling or swimming can improve your heart and lung health.
- Prevents boredom: Cross training can prevent the “burn out” some experience by doing the same activity day in and day out. Participating in different modes of exercise adds variety to your routine and may add new people to your social network. In addition, cross training increases your motivation by making your workouts more challenging and enjoyable.
- Increases muscle endurance and power: Cross-training can target specific muscle groups to improve endurance and power, which are crucial for various athletic activities. For example, runners should consider resistance training to strengthen their upper and lower body creating better form on long runs.
One of the easiest ways to add cross training to your routine is by alternating your activities on your schedule. Example, try running and resistance training or swimming and yoga. Have fun and find things that you’d like to experience. Need help in deciding what’s best for you? Ask a fitness professional such as a personal trainer or group fitness instructor, they are always happy to help.
