Distance running is one of the most grueling and impressive athletic feats that one can accomplish. The idea of running a sustained 6, 13.1 or 26.2 miles is mind-boggling to the general population. Training for such a feat, however, is far more grueling than the actual race itself. While preparing to run 13.1 miles at once, any young runner can expect to easily run ten times that amount in the weeks and months leading up to it. However for those looking to spice up their training plan and take a day off from the road, there are some fun and simple ways to cross train.

Cycling is a great option for those looking to keep the legs working but who just aren’t feeling up to a run. It is important to remember that the cycling must be at a high intensity though, since it can be easy to just coast along and enjoy the weather. Cycling also has the added mental advantage of being able to cover far more ground in less time. To run 6 miles sounds impressive, but to cycle 16 miles sounds far more accomplished, when in reality they are approximately the same difficulty.

Swimming is another activity that gets the heart rate up and can be performed for extended periods of time. Swimming has the added perk of taking place either in a pool or at a beach, which means in addition to getting a workout, cross-trainers can also treat themselves to a day of summer fun. Again, it is important to keep the intensity high here also.

Finally, some low-weight, high-repetition weight training is a good way to get a workout in an air conditioned gym. While distance runners should not be concerned with power lifting, they should be concerned with developing some lean, strong, endurance muscles throughout their body. This type of lifting is geared specifically for that goal.

Although the bulk of a distance runner’s training plan involves running, there are some simple and fun alternatives to get your mind off of the road while keeping your heart well in it.