Running for MTB training

[markStockton]

Can someone please tell me why so many MTB training programs include running as part of the training?

 

I really don't like running at all. I often think of runners as cyclists who have lost or not acquired their bikes yet. 

[Moab]

The training schedule I found does not include running - it is HR based. You welcome to borrow the book if you want but it is basically what I sent you.

[markStockton]

Thanks Di, I'm looking to understand more before I decide on running or not.  

[Red Zone]

Do a race like the Epic (2007 edition) and you will run / walk plenty. Running builds complimentary (to cycling) muscles and can prevent injury.

[Thug]

Mark, I come from a running background so its always been partner of my fitness regime and not something I started when I began cycling.

 

The reason for recommending running is I imagine as Foe Fighter says that it utilises different muscles and prevents injury by not building specific cycling only muscles in the legs.

 

[markStockton]

 

Running builds complimentary (to cycling) muscles and can prevent injury.

 

Fair comment, shouldn't running be part of all high level cycling training then? How many track and road cyclists include running as part of their training program? Oh, and how far, how often?

 

[Canaris]

running makes the bones and joints strong.  It is (after swimming) the most effective cardio exercise.  Runners are more humble.  Running is cheaper.  Who are going at some stage push/ carry/ run with your bike.

[MtBryda]

As I started competing in mtb races last year September, after soccer season, I found some of the climbs hectic. When a lady would pass me up a climb, I would notice that her spinning classes would have helped her. I have since started running between 7km and 10 km 3 to 4 times a week, for 2Oceans training, my legs have definitley got stronger. This has helpded me push harder on the hills. Running does benefit your cycling.

[Mellow]

 

Mark' date=' I come from a running background so its always been partner of my fitness regime and not something I started when I began cycling.

 

The reason for recommending running is I imagine as Foe Fighter says that it utilises different muscles and prevents injury by not building specific cycling only muscles in the legs.

[/quote']

 

if i may add to different muscle groups.... even more so for mtb'ing where your body position move around all the time, not to mention upper body fitness on really long mtb rides.

 

futher to that. im not a runner (at all) but i find that running pushes my HR up much quicker. you have probably found with long races and stage racing (or end of week training) that you can not get your HR up anymore.... try running 5km and see what happens....

 

have i said that i hate running! but i try once a week after a ride

 

[Moab]

Interesting.... but does running not hammer your knees?

[Slowbee]

for the love of time ....

 

how for the fire and brimstone's sake do you fit in riding your bike for 1-2 hrs 5 times a week and then for 5 hours on another day, rest for 3 days, run  10km on alternate days, get a massage and lets not forget, hub time ?

 

oy yes all this in 24 hrs, and if you have some time, maybe a bit on the side.

 

[DoetMan]

I've found that running makes you TOUGH! It's that simple.

 

a 45 min run is much tougher than a 2hr ride (for me anyway), since I've started running my average HR on the bike has dropped considerably.

 

I can definitely recommend running as part of your training regime.

 

[Bos]

Interesting.... but does running not hammer your knees?

 

Yes, it can. Shoes are important and I find running on paved surface much more painfull than grass/ or gravel.

 

try do longer runs offroad  and shorter ones on pave.