Not just a Runner

Hello, my name is Kim, and I'm an ultra-marathoner (currently in training for my sixth marathon). But I'm not just a runner.

You've probably heard me say that (more than once). Running is my sport of choice, but it's not the only thing I do to stay active and in shape.

Yes, I've been training for a marathon for the past few months. And yes, running has been the main focus of all things physical. But it's not the only thing I've been doing. In fact, there are several other fitness go-to's in my arsenal.

When I'm not in my running shoes, you'll find me doing these:

1. Stair-climbing. Hands-down, stair-climbing is my second most favorite-ist aerobic activity. It gets the heart pumping (rather quickly!) and works practically every muscle from the waist-down. You can read more about my love of stair-climbing  HERE .

taking it to the stairs

2. Planking. Oh, do I LOVE my planks! Runners benefit from having strong cores, and planks are (in my opinion) one of the most effective ways to strengthen your core. Did you know I'm hosting a planking challenge for November? (details HERE)

#planks4thewin

3. Strength-training. If I've said it once, I've said it several times.....I love my muscles! I do not go hard-core, hours at a time, maxing out on the weights. I do, however, manage a little bit of work each week with my hand weights (I do a lot more strength work when I'm not in full-on marathon training).

Don't call me skinny

4. Yoga. I haven't been very consistent with yoga in recent months, but I have been doing it in moderation. Again, I am a little more disciplined with yoga when I'm not so focused on marathoning. I especially love the challenge of doing yoga....it's actually quite a paradox how the "better"one gets at doing the poses, the more difficult they become because you can hold them longer and deeper.

ahhh...how low can you go?

5. Cycling. I am by no means, a seasoned biker chick. I have a mountain bike (which still hasn't been properly named) that I dust off every now and then and take for a spin. I need to invest in a road bike (and, probably, some biking shoes). Cycling is a great activity on the non-running days because it has zero-impact on the feet and knees, but still works the legs and gets the heart pumping.

ready to hit the road

So, that's a short peak into my fitness life. I don't believe in sitting still, but I do believe in proper rest and recovery following tough workouts. I try to do 20-minutes of "activity" every day, even if' it's just a casual walk with the dog. And, I do planks every morning to get my body revved up for the day. Now, if I could just get myself to bed at a decent time....

How about you? Do you do cross-training to enhance your running? What's your favorite non-running exercise?

I'm linking up with Lacey and Meranda and Rachel for the Friday Five 2.0.....care to join us? Head over, check out the blogs! Today we're talking about other activities we do when we have the time.