First you are a runner. However, you wait until you are 49 to start. You do not have the physique of a runner. You are 6'3" and were 230 pounds. Khalid Kannouchi is 5'5" and 125 pounds. But you decide you are a runner and it is time to run. So you join the Bolder Boulder Training Club online as a raw beginner in March. They call typically for four runs a week, two cross training days and one day off.
So what is cross training for running? Just about anything that is not sedantary and not running it would appear. How about bicycling? Those of you brave enough to cycle routinely among Houston drivers are bolder than I. How about swimming? Does floating count? I guess not.
Yoga is on the list, spouse always wanted to try yoga, let's do that. So we join a yoga class in May and find out it is not so bad for runners. Specifically:
- Stretching. You used to bend like the San Jacinto Monument. Now you can mess with your ski boots while standing.
- Alignment awareness. Funny sometimes when the alignment and pace is just right one can run seemingly forever. I like that. I want it all the time.
- Strength. You were never any good at pull or push ups. Your downward facing dog, plank and chaturanga poses, among others, are building strength. The upper body does not get a free ride in long running.
- Stamina. Holding poses is difficult as one is normally going to the limit of one's capability no matter how complex the pose. The stamina should help when the going get's tough on the road.
- Mental focus. The more spiritual meditation and mindfulness portion can help relaxation and mental focus which seems necessary to run effortlessly.
- Recovery. Sometimes these hard pavements tighten up the old lower back. Nothing like a downward facing dog to provide some relief.
So for this novice runner, yoga seems like a great fit for cross training. I have been combining the two for the past six months. While many people don't cross train at all since they run all the time, I don't think that is wise for me. Perhaps in a few years. I certainly can recommend the Yoga Institute due to the extremely positive, flexible and encouraging attitude of all the teachers.
Besides, I can now warm up before a race with some yoga poses, which is bound to intimidate or at least amuse the opposition.
Alas, my MCL must rest some more so no running today, ARRRGGGGHHH. Maybe a little mindful breathing will keep me sane while I ice that ligament once more.
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