Those who have felt the proverbial “runner’s high” will tell you that there’s no other activity that even compares to running. Recent studies have debunked the notion that running can be bad for your osteoarthritis of the knee—some have even shown that running can reduce your risk for it. But whether it’s because of pain or caution, you might be seeking alternatives to a good run.  

Studies show that cross-training can help you maintain your aerobic performance and is highly beneficial to your overall health. It can be beneficial for all exercisers and athletes and provide an effective alternative for athletes who are taking a break because of physical injury, overtraining, or fatigue.

Whether you’re in need of some recovery time from an injury or just looking for low-impact alternatives to mix things up, these alternatives to running fit the bill.

Cycling

Cycling offers runners the perfect alternative to running. Just like running, cycling can be enjoyed indoors or out thanks to stationary bikes and bike trainers. Cycling allows you to maintain and improve your fitness but without the same stress on your joints and shins. Hop onto a road bike, a stationary bike at home or at the gym, or try an advanced Spin class for a high-intensity workout that just might offer runners a new kind of high.

The elliptical trainer

Love it or hate it, the elliptical trainer offers an excellent training alternative for runners who are injured or looking to rest their joints. Elliptical machines allow you to mimic the motion of running, and though a weight-bearing activity, it is low-impact for your joints so that you can get a workout comparable to jogging with less impact on your joints, according to Mayo Clinic. Focusing on motions that are as similar as possible to your usual running form and sticking to a similar training schedule will help you make the most of this activity and maintain your fitness level.

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