Looking into Cross Training can improve Your Workout. Articles | Self Esteem

By: Darren Williger

When we weigh ourselves the scale does not let us know how fit and in shape we are.  It just gives us our basic weight and lets us know if we should lose weight or maybe even gain some weight.  Our weight is actually made up of the composition of our body tissue, for example a man's fatty tissue should be no more than 14% and a women's fatty tissue should be no more than 20%.  We some fat to protect our internal organs and protect us from the elements.

However, too much fat can lead to heart disease, diabetes, gout, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, and gall bladder problems.  If you are finding that your fat index is too high or would just like to get in shape to have a healthier life cross training is always an option.  Cross training will lower your fat content by turning fat to muscle.  Concentrating only on your weight will not necessarily lower the fat index, both weight loss has to happen along with gaining muscle.

It is important to lower the number of calories that are taken in and keeping that number around 3,500.  You must burn 3,500 calories to lose a pound of fat.  So if you are working out you might be taking more calories, however you will also be burning many of these.  There has to be a balance between the two so you stay healthy and have enough energy to keep working out.  You can do this through working out or through cross training. 

Cross training involves activities such as swimming, running, and cycling.  Doing these sports will keep the routine fun and fresh, but also improve your health.  Cross training involves distance for extended periods of time at a very constant rate.  This improves the heart, lungs, and blood vessels and burns calories quickly.  There are three basic components you should know about that are involved in cross training and they are:

1. Endurance exercise that improves the heart, lungs, and blood vessels.  This would be walking or jogging at a predetermined distance at a very steady and even pace.  
2. Strengthening the muscles and improving posture.  These include mountain biking or cross country riding.  Also, doing laps in a pool and pushing the distance will get these results too. 
3. Improving joint mobility, along with relieving aches and pains.  These are for example static stretching exercises.     

Remember just lowering your weight does not necessarily lower your fat content.  Yes you have shed pounds, but if there is no muscle then all there is fat and the fat index will still be too high.  Losing weight is also about turning fat into muscle and lowering the fat index.  Cross training is a great way to do this and make you feel great while you’re doing it.