Respect running

Carrying over fitness from another sport can present problems – not least that it’s tempting to try to do too much too soon to replicate the level of exercise you might get on the bike.

A trained cyclist is more likely to try to go straight into running for 30 minutes or an hour because they feel that represents a ‘proper’ workout, whilst a total beginner might be more cautious and build up from ten minutes. Not only that, with a stronger aerobic base cyclists are also more likely to be able to run for longer (even if their legs aren’t ready).

The problem often occurs after the run. Or worse still – when half way through a journey that takes you far from the safety of your start point. Muscles that aren’t used to running begin to ache and the resulting pain or DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness the next morning) can see you limping for days and even off the bike.

The best way to avoid this is not to go all out on your first run. Don’t see this is as ‘replacing your normal bike ride with a run of equal length’ but as a move into a brand new sport, or even sport for the first time. Break up the running with walking. Take it easy. Don’t try to be a pro straight away.

Don’t add intervals too early

IMPORTANT: By running laps we do not mean go down to your local running club and join in a track session.

Speedwork (hill reps, intervals) is great if you want to get faster. But don’t move onto these until you’re comfortable with endurance running and know you can do it without injuring yourself. Fast running puts a lot more pressure on your body.

If you get bored of ‘just running’ then look to include some drills such as high kicks, bum flicks or skips which encourage good technique and will build strength that will pay dividends on the bike.

Stay off road

Every time you stomp your foot onto the ground you’re sending shockwaves through your feet, ankles, calves, quads – right up to your shoulders and neck. With this in mind, if you’ve got a choice between running on the hard tarmac and the soft mud and grass, it’s sensible to choose the latter.

This said, do be careful after dark when you can’t see the ground for ruts and holes where you could turn an ankle. You can run with a purpose designed head torch (or take a bike light!) or stick to lit parks if there are some around you. We really hate to say it, and you can ignore us if you like – but please do be aware of the dangers of running alone in rural areas, especially at night, and choose somewhere more populated if you can.

Stretch and foam roll

It’s important to stretch and foam roll regardless if you’re running as well as cycling or not – but when adding in a new high impact exercise it perhaps becomes even more important.

Pro-Cyclist, Dani King Shows us How to Stretch Key Cycling Muscles

How to: Use a Foam Roller for Tired Cycling Muscles

Cycling – and in fact sitting at a desk – can cause your hip flexors to become tight. When you run, they have to work really hard and if they’re already shortened from your normal activities this can become a real problem and can result in injury elsewhere as a result of your altered posture. Though cyclists do use their calves heavily when riding, the impact to the foot, ankle and calves can also quickly result in overuse injuries like tendinitis if you’re not careful.

So if you’re going to run, up your stretching routine too, paying special attention to your lower back, hips, calves, feet and shoulders (everywhere, then).

Looking for a way to change up your training over winter? Check out… 

The Best Cross Training Exercises for Cyclists

Winter Triathlon Training: Use the Off-Season for a Successful Summer

Off Season Break: Why Every Rider (not just racers) Should Take One

The Perfect 60 Minute Gym Workout for Cyclists