Val Goretsky
Dave Emilio is documenting his training for the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon on Oct. 16.
When you mention cross-training, many runners (myself included) will cringe and say, "Not for me." Trading in a run for some other form of exercise just doesn't appeal. I love running. I know cross-training is a great way to improve your cardio while giving your legs a rest, but I much prefer to run. Plus, if I want to become a better runner, shouldn't I, well, run? Alas, that theory isn't necessarily the correct one, especially for recreational athletes.
How do I fit cross-training into my schedule? Well, in the past few years, I've made it easier for myself by signing up for a few triathlons. For me, when there is a purpose, I enjoy the workouts more, put more effort into them and thus get more benefits out of them. I've discovered, by forcing myself to be open-minded and to try new things, it's actually enjoyable to wear a different hat a couple of days each week.
This weekend, I will see just how well this pays off as I've signed up for a triathlon. My main goal is to see if my recent efforts result in faster times in each discipline compared to how I fared last year.
If you're having trouble getting motivated to do the little extras required for performing well in a marathon, I highly recommend making triathlons a part of your schedule. For me, the competition against others as well as my past performances is enough to motivate me to do the extra training.
There are also non-cardio activities that complement running and are necessary for overall fitness and balance. As much as upper body and core muscle strengthening is hard work, painful and not much fun, I do them.
I try to fit in as many strengthening sessions as I can, which could probably be more often – but work, and family life all play a part in making it difficult. In order to get two to three weekly workouts in, I skip a few lunch breaks. It's tough to stay behind when my office mates head out, but I look at my long-term goal, grin and bear it.
Special to the Globe and Mail