Although running a half marathon is extremely rewarding, it can become boring at times. Some runners are, therefore, keen to supplement their weekly running with the introduction of some additional sports to spice things up a bit. In fact, some sports complement running extremely well and work muscle groups that might otherwise be inactive.
Many sports target the lungs, core and legs, which, in turn, helps with strength, speed, endurance, flexibility, focus, and VO2 max, alongside a whole host of other factors when it comes to running. After all, running is a rather one-dimensional sport, making a number of options away from the track hugely beneficial for the average runner. Too much running can inhibit mobility, for example, making a water-based activity a better option if you’re feeling the strain at certain times throughout the year. Likewise, too much running can result in certain muscles having to work too hard, perhaps leading to some surrounding muscles having to overcompensate, which can potentially lead to pain in the process. On top of this, the aforementioned boredom around running can set in also, with many people searching for a fun sport to combine with their running goals. With that in mind, let’s take a look at a few sports that complement running extremely well.
Swimming
Working the arms, chest, quads and core, swimming is perhaps the perfect sport to enjoy alongside any running routine. As well as providing a solid cardiovascular workout and increasing lung capacity, swimming helps to strengthen a variety of muscles that aren’t necessarily being used during a running session. Swimming can aid recovery too, helping runners to put less pressure on specific joints and avoid any high impact activities.
Skiing
Not only is skiing incredibly fun and entertaining, but it uses a number of key muscles, such as core, hips, quads, glutes, hamstrings and calves. In turn, a typical skiing session will improve lower body strength, stability, balance, and it will enable you to activate any muscles that can be predominantly used during a running session. Don’t be fooled by the snow and cold temperatures either; you’ll most definitely break a sweat and feel the burn while skiing.
Soccer
The biggest sport on the planet, soccer is played and followed throughout Europe mainly and represents a fantastic activity to sample for runners. The beautiful game commands huge viewing audiences, with fans around the world regularly engaging in debate and making use of a variety of betting odds ahead of the weekend’s Premier League action. Away from watching the sport, soccer is beneficial to play, too, working key muscles in the core, hips, quads, hamstrings and calves. A game that stops and starts, players have to jog, spring, jump, lunge, move sideways and backwards, and a range of other movements. Futsal, a variation of soccer, is hugely popular also.
Tennis
A sport that involves high impact and requires a great deal of energy, tennis’ constant change in speed and direction will result in a number of key muscles, such as the arms and the core, being worked extremely well. The sport also caters towards the improvement of fast-twitch fibers, while also potentially helping to train muscle resistance. Many people underestimate the fitness required in tennis, but players cover large distances during a typical match, therefore making it a viable alternative for any runners that are keen to enjoy a different sport on occasions.
Powerlifting
If you’re wanting to improve muscle strength, then powerlifting could be the perfect option. Known to work key muscles such as the core, glutes, adductors, quads and hamstrings, powerlifting represents an intense workout. For instance, many runners use squats to improve the strength in their legs. In truth, though, there are a number of powerlifting exercises that are applicable to running.