The Wonders Of Water Running

While it is agreed that running is one of best forms of exercise, it can be very strenuous on the body. Even seasoned runners who are used to running hard on a regular basis will feel the strain on their bodies once in a while. This is because running does give your body a pounding- the force with which your feet strike the ground with every step and the pumping of your arms all place strain on your body when you run.

For those who love to run, cross training is a great way to give your body a rest from the rigors of ordinary running. Cross training essentially gives you a break and means that you do another form of aerobic exercise which keeps the heart rate up but doesn't put undue strain on your muscles. Cross training is a great way to keep fit and can be a welcome change from the running regiment.

Cross Training Quandaries

Cross training exercises should be ones, which will keep your heart rate up as running would do without putting your arms and legs through stress. Many people like to opt for cycling, treadmills or elliptical machines but these all require sizable monetary investments, either for the equipment itself or for gym memberships.

Water running is an inexpensive and effective way to cross train. The only investment you will need to make is for aqua jogger shoes and vest. Then you just need to find a swimming pool, jump into the deep end and start running. You'll soon find that water running is one of the most powerful ways to cross train.

Why Water Running?

While the practice of running in the water might take a little getting used to, the benefits of water running are huge. Even people who are injured can do water running to keep their heart rate up and stay in touch with their running. The reason for this is that the water acts as a cushion not just for your feet but for your whole body. The shock that your muscles would experience while running on land is cushioned by the water, thus taking a large amount of strain off your arms and legs. Water also provides a fair amount of resistance so that though you may not build up any speed, you will get your heart rate up just like normal running.

Water running can give you the perfect, refreshing break you need from ordinary running. Not only will it give your muscles a breather, it will still give you all the benefits of a good run, with the added advantage of making sure you don't strain or injure yourself. Water running is the perfect cross training exercise for any runner.

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