Running: Cross Training Mini Series Part 1

Me, running.

Running is a great work out!  It tends to tone basically your entire body.  If ever there was an exercise that will whip you into shape in a hurry, it's plain old running.  The great thing about working a run into the normal bicycling training routine is that it works your legs in a vastly different way, and really utilizes muscle groups that get neglected on the bike.

I know this, because two weeks ago when I ran for the first time I ran in about 6-9 months, I was hurting!  One mile was pushing it.  This most recent time out (only my 2nd time since probably last summer), I did a solid two miles, and felt pretty good after it.

I have decided to make it a point to do at least one or two runs per week for the above mentioned benefits of fitness, and mainly working different muscle groups. There are even more great upsides to running:

• The work out is typically more intense than on a mountain bike, and I often feel like I work a lot harder over a shorter period of time.
• It feels great to mix it up every now and then.  That way, when I jump back on the bike, I feel more refreshed physically AND mentally and am ready to hit it hard!

I'm going to bring running back into my training regimen.  What do you think? Do you already run as a regular part of your routine? Or after reading this post, do you think it's at least worth a shot?