We know that you would rather be running than anything else. But whether you’re dealing with ice covered sidewalks, or slushy puddles of melting snow, maybe you’ve lost that running feeling. Don’t worry you’ll find love on your run again. In the meantime channel some of that negative energy into cross training and make the preseason work for you.
“When you’re training for something, like a marathon, you can physically and mentally stagnate,” explains Pam Mazzuca-Prebeg a Toronto-based personal trainer and Lole ambassador, “Being able to switch it up gives you a fresh perspective so that when you come back to your sport, you have a new found love for it again.” But what’s a runner to do? Here are three cross-training options and why each one will keep you fit in a different way.
Indoor Rock Climbing
“Runners don’t use their upper body as much as other athletes, so indoor rock climbing is a great option for building strength,” says Prebeg adding that the upper body focus, balances a runner’s body, which is important for staying strong at any age.
WHO: Runners who enjoy group treks will enjoy the social atmosphere found at many climbing gyms. Plus you’ll also need to partner up because the sport requires you to belay one another.
SESSION: While sessions usually last a hour, depeding on your climbing skill level, you’ll each get about a 30 minute climb.
Hot yoga
Stripping down to minimal clothing while being in a hot environment, that’s practically a dose of sunshine right there. “Going into a hot yoga studio, is a good way to force yourself to stretch,” explains Prebeg. “Runners will lengthen their muscles, increase flexibility and release any muscle tension.
WHO: This is for any runner who wants to channel that warm weather feeling, but still get in a solid sweat session. Plus, you’ll not only improve your flexibility but you’ll decrease your risk of injury for lower back, hips and knees.
SESSION: Prebeg recommends runners aim for a once a week session, which varies from 30 minutes to 90 minutes depending on the class.
Ice Skating
Lacing up your skates can make you feel like a kid again, which means that you’re likely going to have fun. With the sport’s side-to-side movement, ice skating engages different muscle groups including your gluteus medius which isn’t as active when you’re running.
WHO: While all runners can gain the cross training benefits of ice skating, Prebeg says that women runners in particular benefit. According to Prebeg, a stronger gluteus medius will help stabilize your pelvis, and lower back two areas which women runners often incur injury.
SESSION: With thousands of community arenas nationwide, plus even more outdoor rinks, there’s no shortage of options and after about an hour, you’ll probably find you’re body feeling the difference.
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