Running Athletes' Insights: Best sports to get in running shape

18 September 2014

It's not only running that helps to stay fit and prepared for races. Our running athletes tell what the best sports are to get you in shape for running.

To have a bit of a change from running I practice snowshoe-running and cross country skiing. I like the movement in that sport and find the softer impact relaxing for the muscles, Gerd Frick.

Stephan Wenk: In Winter I love downhill skiing and once in a while a ski-tour. But actually most trainings I do on my bike! This is where I take my stamina for long distances and also the strength to push my pace.

According to Fabian Alraun, biking and cross country skiing are the best sports for a runner.

“I like to incorporate biking into my training and recovery. I ride a SCOTT Foil 20 on the roads where I can get out for several hours of aerobic work without the pounding of running on my legs.” Ryan Bak shares. During the winter months, he adds in snowshoeing and is looking forward to learning how to ski, to do some backcountry skiing training.

I hike a lot as part of my training plus include some gym work focused on stability training. In the past I used to play almost every sport I could back in the UK, but it’s difficult to fit these in now. Also, the chance of getting injured in a team sport when playing intermittently at a more social level means I rarely play. However, a background of sports like soccer, cricket, field hockey, tennis, squash and other sports has helped to prepare my body for the rigors of running, Ian Sharman.

I do biking with “Scotty”, my best friend, SCOTT Contessa CR1 team bike. Cycling is very very important for a trail runner. In my opinion it is the best way to improve your fitness for the mountains. But I don’t like flat roads. Luckily, in Grenoble you can find so many little roads without cars, Celine Lafaye describes.

Swimming, cycling and wakeboard are the three favorites of Adam Kovacs.

I use to do some ski-touring in the wintertime, and some bike training, but only in the case my legs aren’t hurting too much after a race! I also love hiking in the mountains and relaxing during a walk, Marco De Gasperi describes.

Simona Staicu bikes a lot, too, but often indoors in a cycling class.

Kevin Everett: “I love to swim and bike and many times I’m going at a ‘walking pace’ to help absorb other training. Walking too is a great resource, especially hikes with the family.

When I finish my season in trail running, I like to stick with the mountains. I enjoy climbing, ski mountaineering or trekking. My coach also recommended ground swimming, Pablo Villa.