Cross-training, not to be confused with CrossFit, is the catchall phrase used to mean performing different types of exercise in your workouts. It’s not a method only meant for elite athletes. In fact everyone, whether you’re a casual gym-goer or an IronMan Athlete, needs to be using cross-training to get the most out of their workouts. Although most people have their “go-to” exercise, be it running, swimming, or Zumba, everyone can benefit from varying up their routine, and we have the details as to why.
Boundless Benefits To Cross-Training
The number one benefit that comes from cross-training is that it makes you more fit all around. Your strength, speed, agility, endurance, and power can all improve from having balanced workouts that mix complementary exercises. This translates to better performance both in sports and in your everyday life.
Additionally, mixing up your routine helps bust boredom. By switching up what you do at the gym or in the park, you can feel more motivated to workout and not hit a fitness plateau.
If this weren’t enough to convince you, the extra advantage cross-training provides is that it reduces your chance of injury. A study by the University of Wisconsin found athletes who perform only one sport were 85% more likely to get injured. Meaning, adding some variety to your weekly training is likely to save you time and money with fewer visits to the doctor and physical therapist.
How To Best Implement Cross-Training
Cross-Training is best implemented in your workout 2-3 times a week. However, this number also depends on how intense the workout is, and how much recovery your body needs. It’s vital you don’t go hard every single day in the gym, because your body needs proper rest too.
The best forms of cross-training are workouts that combine strength and cardio. Many gyms offer classes that perfectly fulfill these needs, such as bootcamp. Ultimately though, your perfect cross-training workout is best determined by what your own fitness goals are. Someone preparing for their first Spartan Race isn’t going to be doing the same regimen as someone who just wants to improve their muscle tone. To get a better assessment of your needs, you can try seeing a personal trainer for a consultation to get you on the right track.
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