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.
I agree with Chris. If you enjoy cross training and by adding it to your workout routine makes workouts more enjoyable, then do it.
However, one thing I consider is whether or not an injury caused by cross training is worth the risk versus the potential benefit.
So, early in my training season I bike and run to build strength in ways that are different from the pool (I lift/strength train throuhgout the year, backing off as I approach taper). Plus it takes some of the stress off my shoulders, because the season is long and the more dry leg work I do early in the season seems to help. So by this time in the winter season I am rarely running or biking because I do not want to pull a hamstring or twist an ankle on a curb, and risk being out of the pool during the final 2 months of the season.
So I enjoy cross training and add it to build strength and endurance, but the risk of injury while running, open road biking is not worth it to me. Just my 2 cents.
I agree with Chris. If you enjoy cross training and by adding it to your workout routine makes workouts more enjoyable, then do it.
However, one thing I consider is whether or not an injury caused by cross training is worth the risk versus the potential benefit.
So, early in my training season I bike and run to build strength in ways that are different from the pool (I lift/strength train throuhgout the year, backing off as I approach taper). Plus it takes some of the stress off my shoulders, because the season is long and the more dry leg work I do early in the season seems to help. So by this time in the winter season I am rarely running or biking because I do not want to pull a hamstring or twist an ankle on a curb, and risk being out of the pool during the final 2 months of the season.
So I enjoy cross training and add it to build strength and endurance, but the risk of injury while running, open road biking is not worth it to me. Just my 2 cents.
