Whether you are training for a 5k, a marathon, a triathlon, or just trying to get/stay in shape, consider diversifying your workouts. I cannot tell you how many times I meet someone who trains 4-6 days a week, but executes the same type of workouts. Your body, much like your mind, needs new challenges to keep it sharp and tuned.
If you do a lot of body impacting workouts; such as, running, crossfit, or plyometric workout, consider adding 1-2 days of non-impacting work. This can be swimming (open water or in a pool), biking, yoga or pilates. It is also a good idea to factor in body weight only workouts if you do a lot of weight lifting. Doing body weight (bw) workouts, like pull ups, push ups, or bw squats will allow your body a lighter day that still has value in your overall fitness goals.
I personally like to incorporate pilates because it is great for total body toning and a good way to work on your core. Yoga is also very beneficial for stretching and upper body strengthening; however, I prefer pilates for the abdominal work. If you can find a dynamic yoga instructor, you will find that you can work up a sweat and raise your heart just working on the mat. ;)
With all that said, I believe that if you are a runner or crossfit enthusiast, the best cross-training work you can do (if you can only pick 1) is to SWIM! Swimming is restorative for your muscles and joints, great cardio work, and completely non-impacting (for all the bad knees and ankles out there). Besides, it is summertime and it is hot out there, so go for a swim and see the benefits!
Happy sweating,
Dominique
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