Sub-elite runner, where do you draw the line at as far as total time spent cross-training?
Ive been logging roughly 1:30 on the bike in the morning, then an hour of aqua jogging in the afternoon with a 30 minute swim.
I figure if cyclists cycle 3-4 hours a day, swimmers more than that... why can't I? I just dont want to over-stress my system!
Motivation isn't an issue, this is my job, i'll do anything to salvage an outdoor season.
If you are injured, you can cross train as much as you are able. If you do too much, you will get tired and worn down. The great thing about no impact sports is that you can usually train until you are exhausted without ever getting injured. With running, it only takes overdoing one workout and you can be sidelined for a long time.
I built up to 4 hours a day on the stairmaster one year.
Yes, but did it help you? In the FloTrack Adam Vess interview he speaks of cross training too much and it taking him a while to come back from it
Lindsey Vonn sometimes cycles 3-4 hours per day. Nut up and ride more than that.