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Cross training is a great way to train your body and has many advantages. Below are just some of these advantages 

Reduces the risk of injury

Cross-training can reduce the risk of injuries, engage different muscles and increase flexibility.  In addition, cross training can add variety to a training plan. While still helping you stay aerobically fit.

Engages different muscle groups

Running continuously can put a lot of stress on your body and can lead to injury. Introducing crossing training between each run increases your aerobic fitness.

Increases flexibility and core strength

Cross training strengthens muscles than you don’t engage while running. It also gives your running muscles time to rest and recover. In addition, you can focus on muscles that are particularly weak and correct muscles imbalances.

Aids injury recovery

Runners often have weak core and poor flexibility. Yoga and Pilates help build core strength, increase flexibility and range of motion, while relieving muscle tension.The majority of runners have picked up an injury at one time or other and have been told by a physio to stop running for a while. With certain running injuries it is possible to cross train and maintain some level of fitness.

Offers variety

Running day after day can become boring. Introducing cross training provides variety to any training schedule.
Different cross training will work specific muscle groups:

Quadriceps

  • Cycling
  • Rowing
  • Swimming
  • Yoga
  • Hill Walking
  • Cross Trainer

Buttocks

  • Cross-country skiing
  • Rowing
  • Swimming

Abdominals

  • Cross-trainer
  • Rowing
  • Swimming
  • Water running

Lower Back

  • Rowing
  • Swimming
  • Yoga

Upper Body

  • Rowing
  • Swimming
  • Weights programme
  • Hill walking
  • Cross-Trainer

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