Cross-training refers to the practice of engaging in different types of exercise or physical activity over the course of a week to enhance overall fitness and performance.
And the benefits are numerous.
It helps prevent boredom by adding variety to your workouts, reduces the risk of overuse injuries by targeting different muscle groups and enhances overall fitness by improving a broad range of traits including strength, endurance, flexibility and cardiovascular health.
Even better cross-training can be implemented anytime, anywhere. By incorporating exercises such as calisthenics, sprint intervals, hiking and stretching into a weekly routine you can develop complete body fitness without the need for any specialist equipment.
Calisthenics
Bodyweight exercises such as push-ups, squats, pull ups and planks utilize your own body for resistance and can be used anytime, anywhere to strengthen and build your muscles. Check out my free bodyweight workout guide for a simple and effective starting point.
Sprint Intervals
Sprinting (or just running fast) is one of the most powerful and natural movement patterns which synergistically builds strength in the foot, lower leg, upper leg and hips whilst also providing a great cardiovascular workout.
Hiking
Hiking provides a low-impact workout that strengthens your lower body, improves your cardiovascular health and boosts your mental fitness all while enjoying the great outdoors.
Stretching
Stretching exercises, yoga poses and joint mobility drills improve flexibility and can be done at home without any equipment for a more supple, resilient and injury-proof body.
By combining these activities into a week of exercise you can create a balanced cross-training routine that strengthens different muscle groups, improves cardiovascular fitness and enhances overall physical performance… all without the need for specialized equipment.