Try Something New This Winter!
Sick of hitting the treadmill, stationary bike or elliptical machine when you can't run outside? The winter is an especially good time to try new cross training activities since it's often difficult to have a regular running routine due to changes in weather and schedules. And the usual stand-bys can get pretty boring after a while.
Good cross training activities for runners include:
Yoga: Yoga is great for runners because it will improve flexibility while increasing strength. Certain types of yoga, called vinyasa, or "flow," and ashtanga, or "power," move the body in ways that produce heat and are quite vigorous workouts. And there is also Bikram, or "hot," yoga. This type of yoga isn't for the faint of heart: it's performed in a room where the temperature is kept over 100 degrees. This type of yoga is especially good for increasing flexibility and balance.
Pilates: Pilates is a great addition to any running program. It's focus is building core strength, an essential item for any runner. Many Pilates classes also incorporate lower and upper body strength-building exercises. Pilates also teaches how to use your breath to get the most out of your exercise routine.
Spinning: Spinning, or cycling in general, is great for runners because it will continue to build strength in the lower body without adding impact to the joints. Because of this, you can add a really intense spinning class or cycling session without putting your legs through the trauma they face during hard speed workouts or long runs. This will do wonders not only for your leg strength but your cardiovascular fitness. And a spinning class is a lot more fun that trying to get your workout on a regular stationary bike.
Swimming and Pool Running: Like spinning and cycling, swimming is great for runners because you get an amazing workout without the impact on the body that running brings. But many runners think that swimming is the only thing one can do in a pool. Not true. There are belts you can wear in the water (in the shallow end, of course) that give you a certain amount of buoyancy to allow you to actually run in the water. They aren't so buoyant that you float to the top, but you're forced to run in order to move. You will use the same muscles used when running on land, but you don't get any of the pounding. This is especially good for people dealing with injuries. Check out the water belts made by AquaJogger.
The next time the weather calls for snow and ice, don't automatically assume you can't workout. You may not be able to get a run in, but there are plenty of options. Try something new today!
Happy running!
Jennifer Gill, MPH, is an RRCA-certified running coach and the Founder and President of Sole Health and Wellness, a wellness company based in San Diego, CA. Sole Health and Wellness offers individual, community and corporate-based running programs designed to help individuals get more active, get healthier and live happier lives! For more information, check out www.solehealthandwellness.com or email jenn@solehealthandwellness.com.
