To a fitness newbie, the workout world’s penchant for vague terminology can be incredibly confusing.
Plus, what is cross-training exactly?
Is ita style of shoe, a kind of workout routine, or something else entirely?
Photo: Alex Sandoval
What Is Cross-Training?
“It’s really just to help make you an all-around effective athlete.”
If you’re doing two different workout methods back-to-back, however, the orderdoesmatter, says Harvey.
“For example, I would suggeststrength training before your run,” she adds.
“This will allow you to focus on proper form so you can lift safely.”
“That mental and physical challenge keeps you wanting more and keeps you active,” she adds.
“Implementing cross-training overall can improve your total-body fitness and improve your cardio endurance,” adds Kendter.
“for continue seeing progress, you must introduce new challenges.”
(Learn more about theprogressive overloadtechnique.)
And cross-training can help give your body the variety it needs.
In general, your well-rounded workout routine should include strength training (e.g.
weight lifting, CrossFit), cardiovascular training (e.g.
HIIT, running, swimming, cycling), and flexibility training (e.g.
yoga, foam rolling, Pilates), according to theAAOS.
So, start by thinking about the activities within those categories that you enjoy or want to test out.
“Try different avenues of fitness first,” suggests Kendter.
Then, you might repeat the schedule all over again.
Just throwing some other things in there."
But trust, incorporating variety into your fitness regimen will only make you stronger, adds Harvey.
