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Cycling Plus Running Is The Best Option

Base training programs in cycling should be supplemented by cross training exercises like running. Running enhances endurance and stresses cardio-vascular system better.

Cyclists doing the stress training course should take up running exercises as cross training program. It is very similar to the cycling since the same muscle groups are being worked. Due to the thudding of the foot on the ground in every step, running improves the strength in leg muscles which cycling motions lack. Practice in running as cross training improves endurance, increases VO2 max and aerobic capacity. The cyclist’s muscles in the torso and shoulders are developed while moving the arms during running which cycling does not provide. The control on the bike is improved by this exercise.

Running requires more energy than cycling. A person can cycle for more duration of time than running. The circular wheel and the gear system help in pushing the body weight and the cycle weight forward whereas in running, the muscles have to do the full work of taking the load. Running as cross training stresses the cardiovascular system quicker. It is definitely useful for the cyclist during the uphill training and for improves endurance.
Running expends more energy than cycling and brings out the body heat to a greater extent, which keeps the runner warm in the cold climate. The cyclist moves faster on the bicycle and the wind chill that is formed makes him impossible to travel for longer periods of time whereas the runner has a slower pace so that he need not bother about the chilling effect. During cold seasons, the cyclist can practice indoor training and run outdoors to overcome monotony within the four walls.

Running should be used as a cross training infused with base training in cycling. After the heavy schedule of cycling workouts, the cyclist should take adequate rest before he switches over to running. The cyclist can run as much for 45 minutes per week on the rest days in between the stress training schedules. The instructor’s secret to the success formula lies in making the training format harder and the resting days more relaxed. In fact, each cycling tempo schedule in a day should be backed up by easy running at dusk. This combination helps in the recovery of the leg muscles.

Running is an injury producing activity because of the high impact it generates, at every step. The injury is due to eccentric contraction wherein the muscle lengthens as attempt is made to shorten it. The calf and quad muscles experience this contraction while climbing down the stairs and not during climbing up. So it is advisable to run on grass or on sea sand rather than on hard concrete roads with canvas shoes.

Written by alastair · Filed Under Fitness