Cross Training Ideas That Don’t Suck

Cross training is like the guacamole on your burrito bowl: not always required, but it makes everything better. It boosts endurance, builds strength, helps prevent injuries, and keeps your mind fresh. The catch? A lot of cross training ideas suck. Sitting on a stationary bike staring at a wall? Hard pass.

So let’s fix that. Here are some cross training ideas that don’t suck—and will actually make you a better, stronger half marathoner.

Hop on a road or gravel bike and explore Austin’s trails, roads, or bike-friendly neighborhoods. Biking gives your joints a break while still building serious cardio endurance and leg strength. It’s low impact, high reward—and way more fun when you’ve got a breeze in your face.

Swimming is one of the best full-body workouts for runners. It builds aerobic capacity without pounding your legs and strengthens your upper body—often neglected in run training. Try intervals, drills, or even some kickboard work to fire up those glutes.

No, you don’t have to deadlift a car. A solid strength training routine—especially focused on core, glutes, and hips—can improve your form, help you run more efficiently, and keep you injury-free. Keep it short and sweet: 2–3 sessions a week, 30–45 minutes.

Rowing is an underrated cardio crusher. It’s low-impact, torches calories, and works nearly every muscle group. Whether you try a rowing-only class or hop into a hybrid session (like at Row House or Orangetheory), your heart and lungs will thank you.

Yes, it counts. Cross training doesn’t have to look like “training.” Dancing, bouldering at a local gym, or even a recreational soccer game engages different muscles and gets your heart rate up. It’s a great way to stay active while breaking up the running grind.

Flexibility, balance, strength—yoga offers all of it. But if traditional yoga classes aren’t your jam, try power yoga, yoga sculpt, or even goat yoga (yep, Austin’s got that too). The key is finding a class that makes you want to come back.

Cross training doesn’t have to be a chore. Pick something you enjoy, schedule it in like you would a run, and treat it as a way to support your half marathon goals—not distract from them. Your body (and your brain) will thank you on race day.