Spring season just started and my coach switched me from distance (1000 and 1600) to mid-distance (400 and 800) and now I have to train with the sprinters. Should I still run XC if I get conditioned this season to run more sprints than longer distances such as a 5K? Please note that I've never been great at distance events, but I did XC last year so I feel like it would be a waste if I simply quit. Any advice would be great
You are in high school? If so, then:
If you like cross country, you should run it next year. If you don't, you shouldn't.
As far as the effect on track now that you are running the 4/8, xc training could go either way. It will probably help out your 8, might not help your 4. I wouldn't worry about it too much, just do what you enjoy.
XC training can definitely help both your 400 and 800. I seen it happen repeatedly.
Shouldn't that be - 400 and 800 training will definitely help your cross country?
I'm sure it works both ways.