In Cross-Training

I believe in cross-training. I have ran 5 half marathons and countless 10 and 5ks all my life. It wasn't that I really started to see improvement in my times till I started working out in new ways. Now I strength training at least 2 times a week, pop into a kick boxing class every now and then and attend a spin class 1-2 times a week. Did I mention that I only run about 2 times a week? My longest run is always on Sundays (when weather permits) only because this is generally when races are held.
Cross-training allows our body to recover certain muscles while working new ones (active recovery). If I swim, I can really work my arms and core but I get to give my calves a rest.

Other benefits include:

• Injury prevention
• Increase endurance (greater running fitness)
• Rehabilitation
• A chance to try new sports
• Keep you motivated

Whatever it is you try, make sure it is something you enjoy. Remember this is your active recovery! It should be fun not just work :-)