Photo Editor Alex White stresses the importance of mixing up a work out and good cross training exercises
By: ALEX WHITE
Photo Editor
Running alone can get really monotonous after a while and sometimes it can be hard to know what to add to mix things up.
Cross-training exercises are great ones to add to a running regimen.
Cross-training is any exercise that gets the blood pumping yet isn’t too tiring.
If a training program is being followed it will be written in the schedule as cross train days.
However, if a program is not being followed it is a good idea to do cross training exercises at least two times a week and after long run days.
When I first started training for my half marathon, I was completely lost when it came to cross-training.
Cross-training should be an easy activity that does not make it hard to breathe.
Personally, I would just go for walks or run at a really easy pace for a short distance, but eventually that became boring as well.
I decided to dig out my old bike, and luckily all it needed was some air in the tires and everything was good to go.
Now on cross-train days, biking is my go-to event.
It is a good workout and works on leg muscles, helping with running.
Swimming is another cross-train activity that you can do when the weather warms up.
It is pretty easy to find a pool and swim a few laps.
If getting a bike or finding a pool is a problem, there are plenty of other events that can be done.
Walking is easy to do, or even playing a game of basketball with some friends can be nice to add.
Whatever gets the heart pumping and sweat dripping is perfect for a successful cross-train workout.
