HOW TO TRAIN when you can’t run
IF AN INJURY HAS PUT RUNNING ON HOLD, IT DOESN’T MEAN GIVING UP TRAINING ALTOGETHER, SAYS RUNNING COACH LAURA FOUNTAIN. TRY HER THREE ALTERNATIVE TRAINING PLANS TO KEEP YOU SANE – AND YOUR FITNESS UP – WHILE YOU RECOVER
CROSS-TRAINING
WORDS: LAURA FOUNTAIN
Being injured is a frustrating time. It can put a stop to your training and racing plans and can leave you feeling deprived of that crucial head space, rush of endorphins and time with friends that running provides.
The good news is that, a period away from running doesn’t have to mean a halt in your training altogether. You can keep your fitness up and enjoy all of the other benefits of running by switching to another activity.
The caveat to this is that you should get the OK from your physiotherapist first because, depending on the nature and position of your injury, not all forms of cross-training may be suitable. Sometimes they may tell you that absolute rest is best. But if they’re happy for you to pick up one of the activities below, the chances are you will find yourself enjoying the shake-up to your usual training routine…