Weightlifter’s Guide to Hybrid Training: Embracing Running

Discovering the Benefits of Hybrid Training

Imagine switching from being a devoted weightlifter to trying out running as a form of exercise. That’s precisely what Rachel Hosie, a health columnist at Business Insider, experienced. She made the change due to the longevity benefits linked to a combination of cardio and strength training, also known as hybrid training.

Surprisingly, she managed to develop a habit for running by not pushing herself too hard and making the process as enjoyable as possible.

From Strength Training to Running

Like many, Rachel got into resistance training over the past decade due to the benefits such as longevity, empowerment, and fat-burning attached to it. However, she found herself running consistently for the first time in her life as she transitioned into her early 30s.

Weight training and running are on the rise, contributing to the popularity of hybrid training. Rachel sought to find the balance between the two, as research suggests that this combination is best for longevity.

The Initial Struggles with Running

Running was not always comfortable for her. She first tried running when she signed up for a 10K race at university. Despite investing in special sneakers and undergoing a gait analysis, she encountered challenges such as knee pain.

She occasionally indulged in short runs but mostly concentrated on strength training. As a weightlifter, her cardiovascular exercises were limited to playing netball. However, when she hurt her wrist and could not lift weights or play netball, she decided to give running another shot. She used a “Couch to 5K” app to enhance her endurance.

Embracing Running

Things changed when she decided to support a friend who was following Couch to 5k by joining her for a run. This experience inspired her to redownload the app and give running another shot. She embraced running slowly and did not rush the process. This approach helped her to build up the habit.

The key to enjoying her runs was making them as pleasurable as possible, running on beautiful sunny days and having a carb-rich snack beforehand to maintain her energy levels. Now, she enjoys the refreshment that comes from shaking off a day’s stress through a run.

Running for Long-term Health

Rachel’s aim is not to break records but to run for her long-term health and fitness. The focus is on the mental challenge and the ability to move without getting out of breath. She has noticed improvements in her stamina when playing netball and climbing multiple flights of stairs.

As the colder months approach, she plans to maintain her running habit, albeit at a reduced frequency. She expresses no desire to run on a treadmill and is comfortable with a less structured training program as long as she continues running and enjoying the process.