Cross Training Questions
What to expect for Cross Country this year?
I plan on joining the cross country running team for my highschool this year. And i want to know what to expect. Like on average, how many miles do you run during practice, during competitions, just all over? And is it really as hard as it seems? I'm actually in pretty good shape, and I have some endurance. I'm going to train more during the summer though. And another question, what exactly do you do in competitions? Like race against other schools or what? And is it a good workout? That will keep me in shape, and shed some pounds? Thanks guys!! [:
Public Comments
- it depends... if ur in highschool like me... expect 4-6 mile practices. meets are fun... except wen ur running... expect mostly 5 k's (3.1 miles) at meets, you do race against other schools and it will keep you in shape.... got me into the best shape of my life
- in meets, you run 2 miles, usually in big groups against other schools. but, in practice, (at least at our school, but our coach is nuts) preseason starts in may even though the season doesn't officially start til September. our coach starts off on 2 mile runs, and gradually increases to 9 mile runs by the end of season. you'll need a lot of endurance for cross country, and stay hydrated, especially since it may be hot and you will need the water. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE GOOD SHOES. i cant stress this enough. when you run, the places you need padding the most wear down. so, with a pair of shoes you've run 300 miles in, the padding will be worn down where you need it, which messes up your joints. if you already have joint problems, make sure to change your shoes frequently. cross country is an amazing workout. no other sport will get you into shape as well as cross country, except maybe gymnastics or swimming. good luck!
- usually during the week you should be getting in probably 20-32 miles. Races are around 3 miles and they are against other schools. They are pretty difficult but if you have been training you'll have no problem (but they are hard). XC is fun so you should definately do it.
