The Benefits of Cross-Training in the Off-Season for Triathletes, Cyclists, and Runners
The off-season or fall and winter months are an ideal time for triathletes, cyclists, and runners to mix up their training with varied sports. Here’s why:
Helps Avoid Burnout: Trade some of your usual activities for something new, like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or downhill skiing. Activities like these can keep you mentally refreshed when start lines are a long way off.
Injury Prevention: Varying activities in the off season will help strengthen different muscle groups and give your body a break from repetitive motions. These varied activities can help you avoid overuse injuries common in triathlon, cycling, and running.
Maintain Fitness: Sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing offer excellent cardiovascular workouts, while trail running builds leg strength and stability without the same kinds of impact found on the road. Cyclocross and mountain biking can sharpen your technical skills on the bike and will provide an excellent higher intensity workout that is a bit more organic than the rigidity we often apply during the season.
Varying activities in your off-season can help you return to your primary sports stronger, injury-free, and more motivated!
