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Cross-training: Rev up your exercise program with variety
Cross-training is an easy way to add variety to your exercise program. Here's how it works — and how to get started.
By Mayo Clinic staffCross-training combines two or more types of physical activity. If it sounds intense, don't worry. Cross-training is an easy way to add variety to your exercise program, whether you want to live a healthier lifestyle or you're an advanced athlete who wants a more varied training regimen.
What is cross-training?
If you're bored with the same old workout, you're struggling to lose those last few pounds or you're ready to add a new level of fitness to your routine, cross-training may help you meet your fitness goals. Consider these basic approaches to cross-training:
- Multiple activities. With this approach to cross-training, you combine two or more types of activity with the same goal — such as aerobic activity — in the same workout. For example, you might ride a stationary bike before your morning jog.
- Alternating days. As another option, you may choose to alternate two or more types of activity during the week. For example, you might swim on Monday and Wednesday and jog on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
Simply pick various activities you enjoy and incorporate them into your exercise plan.
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References
- Stay active and be fit! President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. http://www.fitness.gov/publications/council/stayactiveandbefit_pdf.pdf. Accessed Nov. 19, 2008.
- Treatment principles. In: DeLee JC, et al. DeLee and Drez's Orthopaedic Sports Medicine. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2003. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/109729930-5/770204562/1103/1140.html#4-u1.0-B0-7216-8845-4..50032-6--cesec301_4650. Accessed Nov. 19, 2008.
- Cross training. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00339&return_link=0. Accessed Nov. 19, 2008.
