All the theories say that cross training is a key part of marathon training, with suggestions of swimming, cycling, rowing and weight training being some common ones. For me it’s Shotokan karate – my other passion. The challenge is (a) fitting all the running in around the scheduled class times at our dojo and (b) training hard at karate but remaining injury free.
A great session yesterday morning but took a hit on my right calf – think dead leg in your calf that lasts 2 days! Took it easy ish on the 8 mile run today and all good. It hurts more when moving from sitting or stationary, but fine when actually moving around. A bit more ice on it tonight and a massage later.
As strange as maybe it seems, karate provides great cross training. Balance, core stability work, strength exercises, stretching and breathing. Just need to go easy on partner work and sparring. The plan is to reduce the karate training in the run up to the marathon next April, to avoid injuries full stop!
Interesting post here on cross training in karate on KaratebyJesse, though more geared to cross training in other martial arts or styles. Principals the same!
And do feel free to take a look at our club website or even pop along to train with us, one Friday evening or Sunday morning at St. Mary’s University in Twickenham.
