6 Reasons to Cross
TrainBy Andrea Pesce
 If your results have hit a brick wall even though you've
been following your fitness routine faithfully, maybe it's time to try cross
training. What's that, you say? It's when you change your regular workout and
add in other types of exercise. There are many reasons to cross train - here
are a few of the best:
- Prevent
injury. Doing the same workout over and over again stresses joints,
muscles, and ligaments without giving them full recovery. Overuse is one of the
primary reasons for injury. Working the same muscles in a different way, or
completely different muscle groups, can give your muscles the rest they need to
help prevent problems that keep you from training!
 Balance your muscles.
By working different muscle groups, you will maintain muscular symmetry. If
you've been doing mostly squats and lunges, focusing on your lower body, your
upper body may lack the definition that your legs and buns have. Add in an
upper-body workout, one that includes resistance training to help you achieve
total-body balance. Plus, you'll get the extra benefit of looking toned all
over!
- Gain
strength. With cross training you can increase the overall strength of your
muscles. For example, if you run, or do mostly cardio-based workouts, add a
sculpting routine. Resistance training (with either dumbbells or bands) can
translate into faster running times, and better endurance, not to mention a
speedier metabolism.
 Prevent boredom. Doing the
same old thing gets old. Spice up your workout by trying something - or someone
- new! If you've been following a particular trainer's programs, try someone
else's. Each trainer has a different style and will challenge - and even
entertain you - in different ways. If you've done 'em all, maybe you just need
to get outside for a bit. Consider a sport that's always interested you.
- Keep making
progress with your muscles. Progress with a training routine plateaus
somewhere between 4 and 12 weeks. By changing your workout, you make more
consistent progress!
- Rest tired
muscles. OK, so you don't want to give up your workouts, but you feel like
your performance is going downhill? Maybe you just need to rest the groups of
muscles you've been working relentlessly for months on end. Give em' a break by
doing something different. Go for a hike, a bike ride, or a swim.
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