Cross training helps all

Cross training is a fitness program that uses several different types of exercises to enhance a sport you participate in or may want to get involved with. It’s not really a new concept, though I often hear folks speak of it that way.

Most high schools, colleges and professional sports teams use it.

A good example is my friend, former NFL standout John Reinstra. I had the pleasure of working out with him at times when the season was over. I followed him around the gym like a puppy.

I was amazed to hear him talk about “running the bleachers” two hours before Sunday home games.

I finally got the nerve to ask him, “What the heck are you doing that for?” He told me it was his pregame cross training to keep his edge and to get his game face on.

If you play any kind of sport, try training with weights two or three times per week. Using lighter weight and higher reps build long, lean muscles. I’ve never seen anyone bulk up from rep sets of 15 to 20.

I have seen many people, of all ages, lose weight, develop good core strength and add functional usefulness to their daily lives from cross training even at a moderate level.

Make sure to ask your doctor if strength training and high-level cardiovascular exercise is OK for you before you start.

Consider these three points for adding a cross training program to your fitness program.

• Weight loss. Stands to reason that having your heart and lungs operate at higher beats per minute burns more calories than just treadmill or weights alone.

• Core strength. Core work involves muscles from hips to shoulders used to support the spine and pelvis. Good core strength is invaluable for correct posture and support the back.

• Functional exercise. Did you know that yoga, pilates and isolated stretching will help make your daily living easier.

Being strong and flexible is not only sexy, it eases daily activities as we age.

Just yesterday, a nice lady at the grocery asked me, “How do you stay so trim?” I gave her $5 and mentioned cross training.

Bill McGinnis is a nationally certified master fitness trainer. He can be reached by email at mastertrainer.tx(at)gmail.com or at www.profitness4life.