Adventures in Cross-Training

I know cross-training is a good idea. I read about it, hear about it on podcasts and see my own friends doing it, yet I rarely do any myself. One of the biggest reasons I got into running was because you only had to do one activity. I’m not a switch-machines-at-the-gym-for-two-hours kinda girl. I hate working out inside. I’d rather be shivering outside on a trail running than sweating my butt off on the treadmill watching whatever annoying program the person next to me picked out.

However, I have two issues that I need to work on that I think will need cross-training to be resolved.

1.)    I overpronate. I don’t know how to fix this other than by trying some strengthening exercises.

2.)    I want to be faster.

So I’m not going to get crazy with the cross-training. We’re talking one day a week of cycling and another day of the week where I will do strengthening moves.

Anyone find cross-training hugely helped them? What kind of exercise do you do when you’re not running?

2012 Running Goals at a Glance

With the new year, everyone's resolutions are kicking into high gear. I am channeling my own resolution energy to  make a plan for my running this year. I think my first half marathon will be in May and it will be the New Jersey one in Long Branch.

Since I have one race under my belt, I'm actually going to set a time goal for this one (TBD). I'm debating shelling out $14.95 for one of Hal Higdon's plans. Has anyone done this and found it worth it? I know it's a minimal investment, but I'm more interested in if you felt getting the daily emails and detailed workout plans helped you more than the free version you can grab online.

Happy 2012 running!