Athletic couple training on row machine at cross gym
Too much running can lead to burnout and injuries for even the most hard-core runners and running enthusiasts. Cross-training can be a great way to work through unmotivated phases. Beginners and experienced runners will hit periods when they become bored or uninspired to run. Individuals dealing with injuries need to take time off from running during recovery. Once they are healed enough to engage in physical activity, doctors, trainers, physical therapists, and sports chiropractors recommend low-impact cross-training activities, like swimming or water running/aqua jogging, to lessen the stress on the muscles and joints and help injured athletes maintain their fitness and cope with the frustration of not being able to participate.
Table of Contents
Cross-training is any sport or physical activity/exercise that supplements an athlete’s main sport. Whether a beginner or veteran, it balances the muscle groups because it strengthens muscles that don’t get worked out and/or are used less during running. This decreases the chances of worsening the injury and prevents future injuries. Added benefits:
Individuals dealing with an injury may need to train more frequently as part of a rehabilitation and strength training treatment plan. A doctor, chiropractor, or physical therapist will recommend how much cross-training and type of activities will be the most beneficial for the specific injury.
Swimming is an excellent cross-training activity because it’s not weight-bearing, giving the leg muscles and joints a break.
An elliptical machine provides a whole-body cardiovascular workout with the feel of cross-country skiing, stair climbing, and walking.
Rowing is an excellent cardiovascular, low-impact activity.
Yoga provides some of the same benefits as strength training.
Taking days off from running each week to participate in cross-training activities can help maintain motivation.
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Baltich, Jennifer, et al. “The effects of isolated ankle strengthening and functional balance training on strength, running mechanics, postural control and injury prevention in novice runners: design of a randomized controlled trial.” BMC musculoskeletal disorders vol. 15 407. 4 Dec. 2014, doi:10.1186/1471-2474-15-407
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Tanaka, H, and T Swensen. “Impact of resistance training on endurance performance. A new form of cross-training?.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 25,3 (1998): 191-200. doi:10.2165/00007256-199825030-00005
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Welcome to El Paso's Premier Wellness and Injury Care Clinic & wellness blog, where Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, FNP-C, a board-certified Family Practice Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) and Chiropractor (DC), presents insights on how our team is dedicated to holistic healing and personalized care. Our practice aligns with evidence-based treatment protocols inspired by integrative medicine principles, similar to those found on dralexjimenez.com, focusing on restoring health naturally for patients of all ages.
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Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-C, CIFM*, IFMCP*, ATN*, CCST
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