Cross-training is a fitness approach involving the incorporation of a variety of exercises into the workout regime. Under cross-training, the key focus of the athletes is not to train themselves in one particular type of exercise rather involves training themselves in multiple exercises, significantly improving their overall performance, and preventing the risk of injuries. The best part about involving a combination of exercises in daily routine is that one exercise overcomes the shortcomings of another, mitigating imbalance.
How This Works
Practicing one particular type of exercise daily is quite monotonous but with cross-training you can make your workout regimen super interesting. You can now try an ideal mix of aerobics, strength training, and flexibility, helping target different muscle groups, and significantly improving the fitness level.
Here is a sample cross-training schedule for a better understanding of the cross-training fitness journey.
- Monday: Strength Training (Full Body)
- Tuesday: Cardio (Running or Cycling)
- Wednesday: Flexibility and Mobility (Yoga or Stretching)
- Thursday: Strength Training (Upper Body Focus)
- Friday: Cardio (Swimming or Interval Training)
- Saturday: Active Recovery or Light Cross-Training
Important Tips You Must Know
You can adjust the intensity and the duration of the workout according to your fitness level. You should be a little flexible with your body and must not force it into a rigorous activity right from day one, rather increase the intensity of the workout day by day, so that your body can become used to it and adapt to the change easily.
Remember consistency is a key. If you want to see effective results, then you must have a consistent routine of workout. Without consistency, you can lose interest and won’t get the desired outcome.
Listen to your body and take additional rest days if needed, especially if you feel overly fatigued or sore. Further, keep on incorporating new activities every week as this will help to keep the exercise routine fresh and challenging.
Benefits of Cross-Training
- Prevents Injury
- Balanced Muscle Development
- Improvement of Overall Performance
- Help in Recovering from the Main Sport
- Break from the Monotonous Workout Regime
