How Cycling Can Help your Trail Running

Are you a cyclist or a trail runner? Whilst it is true that the more running you do the better runner you can become there are complications which can be offset by adding some cycling into your running training.

Volume

Running, even on a varied trail surface is repetitive and high impact, the musculo-skeletal damage you incur even from an easy session is far greater than an equivalent bike session.

Adding one or two bike workouts into your training programme can enable you to increase your volume without increasing your risk of injury.

Intensity

Whilst some runners are capable of two intense sessions per week and in addition to a long run, for others this can often end up with injury. Adding in a more intense bike workout can enable you to do a bit more quality without getting injured.

Injury

Injury is a tough and not being able to do any exercise especially for long periods is neither good for us nor helpful for our mental well-being.

When faced with a long rehabilitation phase after an injury, cycling can often be a great alternative if it doesn't aggravate the injury. Athletes will find they maintain some fitness and get the psychological boost they need from cycling...some even find they quite like it!

Starting out

For people just starting a fitness programme who are looking to get down to a healthy weight, cycling can be a good place to start. As it is not weight bearing there is less risk of causing joint damage by starting your fitness programme in this way and introducing running and other weight bearing exercises gradually as your weight allows.

Boredom

Some people thrive on variety; it keeps them motivated and excited about their goals. Having workouts in different disciplines can help keep you motivated and excited about your training programme and avoid feelings of boredom.

If you would like to find out more about how you can add cycling into your running training you can book a free 20 minute consultation with no commitment and see how we can help you.

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Post by Clare Pearson
July 25, 2024

A professional endurance coach since 2018, Clare Pearson has worked with endurance cyclists and runners to help them achieve their goals. Clare specialises in endurance events, she loves to work with people to help them succeed at their own goals; whether that's a personal best, a completion, a podium or better emotional health. Clare will work with you to design a plan that fits in with your day to day life and helps you get the most out of each session.