MamasHealth.com Home Running Pages Altitude Training Avoid Overtraining Avoid Running Injuries Avoid Sunburn Breathing Techniques Cross Training Downhill Running Find a marathon Half marathon Training Hill Training Interval Training Marathon Day Tips Marathon Training Raceday Checklist Refuel Foods Recup from a Marathon Replacing Fluids Run with a Buddy Running Accessories Running Apparel Running and Blisters Running Gear Guide Running and Massage Running and Walking Running Books Running Programs Running Shoes Running on a Treadmill Sports Therapies Stretching Water Workouts for Runners Winter Running Tips Links Email Mama Inexpensive Treadmills Nutrition for Athletes Recovery foods Fitness Accessories	Cross Training What is Cross Training Cross training is using two or more types of exercise in successive workouts. For example, a distance runner in training, may also lift weights twice a week, swim, perform daily stretching exercises, and do yoga Tuesday. A cross-training program usually involves a combination of different exercises, each performed for a specific period. Cross training is a great way to condition different muscle groups, develop a new set of skills, and reduce boredom that develops after months of the same exercise routines. After several months of performing the same exercise routines your body becomes extremely efficient performing those movements, however, the repetitiveness limits the amount of overall fitness you possess and reduces the actual conditioning you get while training. Cross training increases your fitness and allows you the freedom to vary the stress placed on specific muscles or your cardiovascular system. Benefits of Cross Training? Reduces exercise boredom Produces a higher level of holistic conditioning Conditions the entire body Reduces the risk of injury from repetitive strain or overuse Work some muscles while others rest and recover Improves your skill, agility and balance Cross Training Suggestions Cardiovascular Exercise Running Swimming Cycling Rowing Stair Climbing Rope jumping Skating Skiing Racketball / basketball / other court sports Strength Training Calisthenics Free Weights Machines Tubing and Bands Flexibility (stretching, yoga, pilates) Speed, agility, and balance drills Circuit training, sprinting, plyometrics and other forms of skill conditioning	Featured Book Advertise on MamasHealth.com
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