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OK, again my personal
belief. The most important thing about running is running, so I focus
pretty much only on actual running.
One exception, I do a weekly core
stability class
to specifically develop and strengthen my core and back. This
form of exercise came about as a result of multiple stress fractures in
my back at the beginning of 2006. These classes have paid off
and
really help my back, hips and hamstrings while I’m out there on the
road.
I don’t specifically add gym
work or any other cross
training
to my programme. I will cycle or swim if I have an injury
that
requires no impact stress. I don’t do weights or use those
exercise machines at the gym. I find running takes up enough
of
my time! I save the gym work and treadmill running
for stormy days when the weather is not suitable for outdoor
exercise. My husband, Andy (when he is actually training)
uses treadmill running
for speed training. He maintains it is a controlled way of
“upping the pace”. He says it works for him.
Hey,
there’s nothing wrong with spending time in the gym. It does
help
to build strength but beware that you don’t cause yourself an injury by
pushing too much weight!
If
you play other sport, you can continue to do so as long as you don’t
run the risk of injury which is more likely to happen in contact
sports. I have recently taken up SCUBA diving and I find it
quite
hard work, but at the same time it is good for muscle toning and upper
body strength. Another good day out is hiking. It
offers a
nice variation to your leg muscles and gives a pretty good workout,
both physically and in terms of cardiovascular fitness.
Key words: running, treadmill, cross training, Internal links: core stability, hamstrings, External links: Official Comrades Marathon website, |
Copyright Nikki Campbell 2008