Finally “Getting” Cross Training

I prefer concentrating on how clothes fit and my body feels rather than a number on a scale. That’s why, in the year that Dan and I have owned a scale, I can count on two hands the number of times I’ve stepped on.

But, I can say that two of those times have been within the past couple of weeks I’ve been attending Lawrence’s Title Boxing Club — and the results have been nice rewards for my work.

Still, the very best payoff had nothing to do with the scale.

After a week effectively off of running, I hopped back on my treadmill. At first, I felt as strong as usual. A few miles, though, I felt better than I have since my last half-marathon.

To me, it was an unexpected surprise. I used to think the only way to really get better at running was by running. Sure, that could include sprints, intervals and long runs — the common denominator was just that running was always involved.

In the rare cases that I wasn’t running, I was doing some kind of active recovery, such as biking or walking. Fitness classes were fun — only when I didn’t have a race to train for.

Now, I don’t know if I can go back. I’ve seen I can get the best of both worlds — fitness classes that make me stronger and better, speedier runs — and don’t have to sacrifice anything in the process.

I know I shouldn’t be too surprised.

How could my endurance not improve after multiple power hours of boxing? How could the strength I’ve gained not helped me move my legs? How could the mental fortitude it takes to get through the classes not be beneficial when I feel like giving up on a hard run?

After that run, I’m excited about two things: Continuing my classes at Title Boxing Club and lining up for a 5K this fall.

P.S. The offer still stands if you want to take a class with me!