Agility Training For Runners
Incredible Pros and Cons of Agility Training For Runners
Without a doubt, being a well-rounded athlete makes us better runners.
So when I was asked to start cycling, I jumped at the opportunity.
When I was asked to play pickleball… Same thing. A definite yes.
When I was asked to sub in a soccer game, then later, play a whole season of soccer. Sign me up.
Will some of this take away from my running? Yeah, maybe. But maybe it opens me up to a brand new opportunity that has slowly been eroded away: flexibility and agility.
What is Agility?
My understanding of agility is being able to move in every direction (if needed) and have the ability to make decisions in a blink of an eye, while also maintaining balance and being in control.
We may not need all of this during every run we take, but trust me, if you’ve ever been on a technical trail while pushing the pace, you know just how agile you need to be.
Why’s Agility Important?
Imagine you’re busting out a workout on the roads and in the corner of your eye you spot a big pothole. You don’t react fast enough and you’re now sprawled out on the pavement.
Agility is having the ability to see something in a split second and react without taking that spill. It’s being able to adapt and adjust on the fly.
How Can You Add Agility Training?
Since a full-on soccer game is probably not in your best interest, you might want to consider doing some plyometrics once or twice a month.
If that doesn’t spark your interest, you can definitely add in movements and sports that are less likely to get you a torn ACL, like paddleboarding, yoga, or pickleball.
Why Agility Now?
Since I’m almost 40 and my speed and agility aren’t what they used to be. I decided I needed to start doing some stuff that isn’t running but is fun and allows me to stay active and fit. So to be able to sprint and move laterally during these non-running sessions, will ultimately make me a happier person AND a better runner.
While I don’t really encourage my own runners to play indoor soccer like I’m about to (for fear of injury), I think cross training and doing non-repetitive sports is beneficial for creating all-around athletes.
When is Right for You?
It’s possible that there is never a good time for you to be playing high-intensity sports because you are injury prone or because you’re deep in a training cycle.
But if there’s ever a chance, especially in between training cycles, I strongly suggest you get out of your comfort zone and try a sport you’ve been longing to try.
If there’s anything we’re discovering about ourselves, it’s that spending time away from just running, but still working on being a better athlete, is ultimately going to help our running.
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The Ultimate Guide to Breaking 22 Minutes in the 5k
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Friday’s Action Plan
Add non-running activities sparingly, but wisely to help build your agility as a runner.
What Has My Attention:
Running In Humidity - Tips to Make It More Bearable
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Quote of the Week:
Your body will argue that there is no justifiable reason to continue. Your only recourse is to call on your spirit, which fortunately functions independently of logic.
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