Running for cross training...

Quoted post said:

Originally posted by Rocket69
Hi all... just wondering if running is an effective cross training sport for cycling... Living in a Nordic climate (Canada), I am planning to start running in late Feb 'til the end of March to help improve my cycling. Would this be a waste of time or a good idea?

Input from others who using running as an effective cross sport would be appreciated.

Rocket69

I think any level of training (swimming, running, boxing, rowing)
is beneficial.
Basically, anything that exercises your heart is beneficial to cycling
performance.
(There is the old adage that cyclists should stay off their legs when possible-but this really only applies to elite athletes).
Running is an excellent aerobic workout and it is especially helpful in working the heart and lungs.
Ok, different muscle groups are used when running compared to cycling but the system of transferring energy from the heart and lungs is the same as when cycling.
(The heart whether worked through running, rowing etc, uses the same delivery mechanism as in cycling training).
WhaT I would say is that there is some profit in considering running distances however.
I find that aerobic workouts (running 10x100 metres - with 30 second gap between each 100 metres, done 3 times) to be more beneficial than say running longer distances at a steady pace.
However I think that only you can decide what is comfortable for you.

In Canada, why not try speedskating, or skating-style X-country skiing? While providing all the aerobic benefits of running, you'll be working the quads, glutes and core back muscles. Not exactly the same way they are used on the bike, but much closer than running, IMO.