CROSS TRAINING IN SUMMER


SUMMER TIME offers plenty of opportunities to cross-train; warmer weather and a desire to spend more time outdoors means that it needn’t be a chore, and breaks from running can be spent having fun and looking after your body at the same time. Here are NORTHERN RUNNING EGUIDE’s top ways to cross train in the summer months ...


HIT THE WATER


l KAYAKING/CANOEING Working a variety of upper body muscles this is also a fabulous aerobic workout. Those wanting to try kayaking out for the first time should do so with some professional help. To find events and locations see www.bcu. org.uk. l SWIMMING


Swimming is a great way to give your body a full workout and raise your heart rate. There are plenty of variables here; preferred stroke, where you like to take your dip - pool, river, sea. But regardless, this is a top summer work out that is readily available to most people. l AQUA AEROBICS


The wild card of the list, but this somewhat retro holiday favourite is a fun way to pass time that will burn calories and give your muscles a good work out. Afterwards you can get back to the serious business of soaking up the sun with the smug satisfaction that you have ‘cross-trained’ on holiday.


TEAM PLAYER


l VOLLEYBALL Forget bikinis on the beach, you can play volleyball anywhere and it is a great way to boost your aerobic fitness levels. l TENNIS


An obvious summer choice. Wimbledon season sees plenty of Murray wannabes don their whites and head to the courts. And why not? Tennis will improve your strength, flexibility and fitness - so pick up that racquet. l ROUNDERS


If summertime brings back memories of fun- filled games of rounders, why not organise a game with friends and family and combine socialising with working out?


EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS l HORSE RIDING


Get outdoors and enjoy your surroundings on horse-back. Horse riding burns calories, and uses major muscle groups such as the abs, obliques, and thigh muscles. l HIKING/WALKING


Sometimes there is nothing better than a simple walk. Runners often mistakenly believe that walking is too low intensity to be worthwhile, but going for a good, brisk walk will provide a good cardio work-out with little strain on your joints. For those who fancy something more serious, why not head to the dales for the day and indulge in a little hiking? A great all over body work! l CYCLING


An old favourite, but not without good reason. Cycling encourages your hamstrings to lengthen and keeps fitness levels up with minimal jarring on the legs and back. A great one if you need time to ease any aches and pains.


NORTHERN RUNNING EGUIDE 14


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