Cross Train Your Way to a Balanced Body

Cross-training is the technique of using other fitness activities and exercise to enhance aspects that your main sport or workout does may not hit sufficiently. As mentioned previously, it is important to engage in a variety of activities that may benefit your new venture into the world of cycling.


The body is very adaptable and will soon get used to whatever type of activities you are engaging in. Cross training will aid in the efficient burning of calories, increased endurance and injury prevention, by ensuring that you are attacking a variety of muscles groups in different ways.


Though running may be though of also as primarily a lower body exercise, it not only enhances leg strength, but also core stability. These upper body muscles may not be sufficiently exercised while cycling, even though they may be stressed due to the fact that the cyclist must bear their upper body weight against the handlebars of the bicycle.


If you are a more accomplished cyclist, running may also provide the boost you need to increase your endurance and not get winded while riding.


Swimming is an exercise that uses all muscle groups and is a great cross training exercise for cardiovascular fitness. In swimming, most of the work is done by the arms, while the legs work to support the movement through the water. Since this is the opposite of cycling, it can help provide a good, balanced and toned body.


In Southern California, we may have the luxury of being able to be outdoors on our bikes all year round, but for those who cannot, swimming in an indoor pool, or cross-country skiing are great options.


Weightlifting, or resistance training, is always a good addition to any sports and fitness plan. By challenging your muscles, they will become stronger and help you perform your sport with more strength and speed. Some excellent exercises that compliment cycling include the leg press, calf raises, the hamstring curl, leg extensions and, the best exercise of all, the squat.


Aside from the physical benefits of cross training, there are also mental ones. By keeping variety in your workout, you are less likely to get tired, bored or discouraged. You will be able to keep a consistent plan and be less likely to fall into the “I don’t feel like it today” attitude.


CROSSFIT 619 workouts are a great example of cross training. They engage all muscle groups and provide a challenge to the body unlike any other. Come in and join us today to see what the buzz is all about.