1. Stationary Cross Trainer
A good cross training bike challenges a number of different muscle groups while providing various speed challenges and terrains Other than taking your bike out and going through the different routines on your own, you can get a good stationary bike which offers many different courses. You can find some of these cross training bikes in the gym and many brands are available for home use. Cycling is such a one-sided sport that cross training is vital to maintain a healthy body and mind, as well as to prevent injuries.
2. Cross Train Your Body
Good sports to challenge muscle groups that may not receive a good workout on a bike include swimming, which gives you an opportunity to put your arms through a multitude of range of motion exercises, and jumping rope, which provides the impact needed to maintain strong bones. Rowing, both on inside rowing machines and out on the water, put the arm and chest muscles into shape, while working the abs and back. Certainly a stationary bike can be ridden all year long. Add resistance to your rides to strengthen the legs.
3. Free Your Mind
Whether you are riding in town on an urban route or cycling up a mountain, you will probably not want to shut out the natural noise of your surrounding. Take time to train your mind for long rides or when you feel distracted. Martial arts training is a great way to keep moving and exercise while adding a few more dimensions to your regimen such as self-defense and meditation. Some martial arts disciplines include meditation as a way to prepare for competitions as well as a way to train the mind to control your body better. Adding some kind of mind/body association to your cross training will ultimately affect your cycling success.
4. Ride, Sally, Ride
When you are using the cross training stationary bike, make sure that you don't get into a doldrums there either. Change the settings on a regular basis and challenge yourself with higher tensions and steeper inclines. It is easy to get complacent when riding inside, especially if you'd rather be on the road. Consider your time with the cross-trainer as necessary preparation to get the most out of your riding.
5. Mind the Assets
While you may find excitement, enjoyment and relief in cross training exercises and sports, remember to protect your most important assets, your knees and your back. These two areas of the body often are more prone to injury when you get all hyped up in an activity. If you feel pain, stop so that you can be ready to ride another day.
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