The Benefits of Cross-Training

Even if you consider yourself to be in better-than-average shape because you hit the gym every morning or run frequently, there might be gaps in your training. When we specialize in only one type of activity, the gaps in our fitness—whether it’s in our strength, cardio or flexibility—can lead to issues in the long run.

 

To fix this, many people enjoy cross-training. What is cross-training, and how could it benefit your overall health, wellness and fitness? Here’s the low-down.

What Does it Mean to Cross-Train?

While most people have one specific sport they train in, cross-training is a way to achieve a higher level of overall fitness by venturing from your standard routine and performing different movements, lifts and activities. All of the activities you carry out should complement each other.

For example, a runner might lift weights to build muscle around their joints and help protect them from potential injury. The possibilities are endless, but everyone should consider cross-training for a few different reasons, such as the following.

Cross-Training Keeps Things Interesting

Besides the overall fitness benefits of cross-training, it can also keep things interesting. When you perform the same exercises for an extended period, it can become dull, and you might lose that spark that pushed you to go further.

So, instead of running the same sprints each day in your running shoes, you could instead lace up your weightlifting shoes and hit the deadlift platform and vice-versa. You’ll have a new challenge in front of you, which can inspire you to push harder. If you feel like every session in the gym is becoming too similar, cross-training could be your solution.

Cross-Training Provides More Schedule Flexibility

Let’s say you’re an avid lap swimmer and you go to the pool one day just to see that it’s closed. What do you do? If you cross-train, you can simply slip on your athletic leggings and go for a jog around the neighborhood. If you’re not cross-training, you might go back home and take an unplanned rest day. Which sounds better to you?

Cross-training helps you add a little bit of planned flexibility to your workout schedule. Are the tennis courts full? Shoot some hoops instead. Weight room a mess? Grab an open treadmill and sprint it out.

Cross-Training Fills in Gaps

When all you do is lift weights, you might suffer from lost flexibility or weak cardio. When all you do is run, you might benefit from building more muscles to protect your ankles or knees from potential injury. Cross-training is about meshing together different sports and movements that complement one another for a complete, full-body wellness program. You don’t need to do something entirely different every day. For example, even just lifting weights a couple of times per week if you’re a runner, or running a couple of times per week if you’re a lifter, can make a huge difference. Make sure that you’re training your entire body, and you’ll be more fit because of it.

About Reebok

From the start, Reebok has produced footwear and apparel for those who perform, move, inspire and innovate. Whatever your sport, Reebok has the athletic gear you need to propel yourself forward. From their CrossFit Nano series to weightlifting shoes, running shoes, fashion-forward white shoes and more, when you lace up a pair of Reeboks, anything is possible. Reebok also has all of your athletic apparel needs covered, offering a wide selection of performance shirts, sports bras, athletic leggings, gloves, hats and so much more. Couple their selection with their innovative technology, and Reebok is your clear choice for all athletic wear.

Shop Reebok’s entire selection of fitness essentials at Reebok.com