As you have probably guessed by now, I am a triathlete. It’s not only plastered all over the 10HoursAWeek.com blog, but is probably also reflected in how I look at solving the problem of running better. Today I urge you to consider the “brick” workout, or combined bike + run workout, as a means of shaking up how you train in search of improvement.
What is a Brick?
Essentially, the term “brick” is meant to describe how one’s legs feel when you start running after getting off the bike. As such, it can mean almost any type of bike run combination. How you put them together is a function of what your training and racing goals are. I am recommending them in this tip series because I think that running from a new starting point (slightly fatigued and in bike mode) can really help you refocus on your running. Here’s how…
New Exercise = New Focus
First and foremost, cycling and running tap into different energy systems and muscle groups…so moving from the bike to the run means switching gears (literally). On a more macro level, cycling ties in to balance and agility as well, two key aspects of running that often fade to the background once we start running.
New Stress, Re-emphasize Muscle Patterns
Coming off the bike means that you almost have to rethink your running. Your legs get all whacky, your sense of exertion is entirely gone. Think sensory deprivation for running, or what it’s like to wake up from a deep sleep — they are disoriented. “Putting matters to right” then requires full attention and a back to basics strategy that means more attention on the how you are running.
New Workouts = More Work
Last but not least, my favorite: riding a bike also places a whole new perspective on what hard is. You can go waaaaaaaay harder on the bike, repeatedly, than you can on the run. I personally find that while the fitness itself doesn’t transfer – i.e. you can’t get faster at running by riding your bike – you can have better run weeks by alternating every now and then with a bike (or other sport) emphasized week.
What’s your favorite type of cross-training?
Welcome to my corner of the Web. 