"Perks of Cross-Training May End Before Finish Line"

[Ben Moskowitz]

Interesting article about cross-training for sports performance. Basically, there isn't good carry-over from one endurance sport to another. However, weight training does benefit endurance performance. Finally, cross-training hasn't been shown to reduce injuries. For instance, the only way to reduce running injuries is not to run (or run less).

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/16/health/16best.html

WFS

[Dustin Standel]

Originally Posted by Ben Moskowitz

Interesting article about cross-training for sports performance. Basically, there isn't good carry-over from one endurance sport to another. However, weight training does benefit endurance performance. Finally, cross-training hasn't been shown to reduce injuries. For instance, the only way to reduce running injuries is not to run (or run less).

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/16/health/16best.html

WFS

I think you missed the main idea here - crosstraining maintains cardio-vascular endurance and health, but rowing won't help you run better. Crosstraining in an endurance sport for fitness is good for everyone, it says, just be aware that the time spent crosstraining in that sport won't help your performance in your primary sport. This isn't news.

[Ben Moskowitz]

The article seems to imply that CrossFit metcons wouldn't benefit endurance performance, though. At least that's my take. Strength training would, of course.

[Jeff Stanek]

Originally Posted by Ben Moskowitz

The article seems to imply that CrossFit metcons wouldn't benefit endurance performance, though. At least that's my take. Strength training would, of course.

Correction: CrossFit metcons won't benefit sport specific endurance performance, if the metcons do not include that movement.

Sport athletes can use CrossFit as a conditioning tool, not as a sport-specific training tool.