Running. Does it help your swimming or is it an interesting diversion? A lot of people here seem to cross train with running. (Some are obviously triathletes). USS teams now have their swimmers running. But does running really help swimming?
For me, I'm not so sure. I think it helps a bit on the cardio side and may build leg strength. I do it to tighten everything up, because I like being outside and it gives my shoulders a break. But I'm not sure I wouldn't be better off with more pool time if my body could take it.
OK I hate running so I am not unbiased,but I think your time could be better spent doing more swim specific exercises.I'll distiguish running on level ground from stadiums. Running stairs is less jarring and gives a better workout to the muscles used in breaststroke.Biking is also good for breaststroke. Regular running is hard on your hips and knees with very little swimming crossover except cardio.Cardio is of course important,but if I am cross training I want to either do something that directly helps my swimming or that I like and as I said I hate running.
OK I hate running so I am not unbiased,but I think your time could be better spent doing more swim specific exercises.I'll distiguish running on level ground from stadiums. Running stairs is less jarring and gives a better workout to the muscles used in breaststroke.Biking is also good for breaststroke. Regular running is hard on your hips and knees with very little swimming crossover except cardio.Cardio is of course important,but if I am cross training I want to either do something that directly helps my swimming or that I like and as I said I hate running.
