I been noticing at the gym for a couple of weeks that many runners either just run or do other forms of cardio whether its the elliptical, stationary bike, and stair master.

After all, running outside or on the treadmill enables you to lose the most calories, sweat the most, and to keep getting better at running. 

But running consistently all the time and considering running to be your sole component in your workout routine is not the best practice – especially to those who participate in triathlons, 10K’s, half and full marathons.  I bring this up because the peak of the running season is approaching and we all want to continue to stay in shape over the course of the holidays.

I find it important to cross train at least 3-4 times per week.  Yes running is major part of the cardio, but also incorporating free weights and exercise machines is essential in the routine.  I get bored easily from the treadmill and elliptical.  The flat screens and the loud music help, but just on it for almost an hour - burns.  Used to be able to stay on the elliptical for an hour+, back when I never had a full time job and time was not so precious. I had to discover mixing up my workouts in a short period.

I average about an hour at the gym, running between 8-10K under 50 minutes and then hitting the weights and weight machines.  In my past blogs, I wrote about using the dumbbells, free weights for abs – side swipes, and using my favorite exercise machines: lat pull, abdominals, arm curls, overhead press, and triceps press.

Notice the next time you’re at the gym comparing who the runners vs aerbocisers vs bodybuilders and observing what they do and the time spent in the gym. You will be amazed.