Cross-Training: Which Fitness Activities Work Well Together & Which Ones Don't? We Asked An Expert

This content is brought to you in partnership with OrthoCarolina, one of the nation's leading orthopedic practices with offices across the Southeast.

​Should you run first, then lift weights? CrossFit one day and yoga the next? What about longer cardio? Higher reps or heavier weights?

There are so many options for fitness, and ways to "do" fitness, you can almost think yourself right out of getting anything done! Let's take a look at some general types of fitness activities, what works best together, and how to come up with a sustainable plan.

We spoke to Jason Boudrie, Wellness Director for OrthoCarolina and Director of the OrthoCarolina Wellness Center, to get his three top tips for figuring out the fitness puzzle.

Work For Your Beer Cross-Training Fitness Activities

1. Figure Out Your Goal

Is it to build muscle? Lose weight or body fat? Get more flexible? Improve your cardiovascular endurance? Figuring out your goal will help determine your training focus.

​Weight training is critical for building muscle, burning body fat, and supporting bone health. Yoga is great for flexibility, core strength, and finding inner calm. And cardio helps to burn calories and build endurance.

2. Look At Your Schedule

Do you work better in the morning? After work? Over lunch? How long do you have to fit in fitness?

​If you have a fairly flexible schedule, you can work in strength training, some cardio, and yoga for flexibility all in one session or split throughout the day. If not, structure your week so that you incorporate all three components: (1) fitness/cross-training, (2) cardio, and (3) yoga. Then do each 1-2 days a week.

3. Do What You DON'T Like First

If you love to do yoga, but don't like weight training, make a goal to do 20 minutes of strength work before your yoga class. That way, you're more likely to get the thing you don't ​like done, since you have something to look forward to after you're finished.

"It's important to include weight training, flexibility work (like yoga), and cardiovascular conditioning in your fitness program so that you're balanced, fit, healthy, and can stay injury free," said Jason. "​By cycling through periods of heavier and lighter weights, lower and higher reps, HIIT and longer-duration cardio, and yoga, you'll be well on your way to solving the fitness puzzle."

​​Learn More About Building Strength & Protecting Your Body From the Experts at OrthoCarolina

​Whether you've recently experienced an injury, need help with recovery after tough workouts, or are simply experiencing chronic pain and need help  managing it, OrthoCarolina can help. Make an appointment at a location near you to start getting the treatment you need.

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5 Exercises for a Healthier Core, As Recommended by a Clinical Specialist