Running News Daily

Injured? Try these sports instead

Let’s face it–being injured sucks. What does a runner do when they can’t run? While most of us turn to cycling, pool running or swimming, there are other sports you can try if traditional cross-training methods just aren’t for you. What you’re able to do while you’re healing from an injury, of course, is very dependent on the nature of your injury, but the following suggestions might be good options for those who are looking to have a little fun in their unplanned off-season.

Hiking

Take a walk, add some elevation change and nature, and you’ve got a hike! Many runners turn to walking while they’re injured, but if strolling around the neighbourhood doesn’t do it for you and you’re lucky enough to live in an area with trails (west coasters, we’re looking at you!) take advantage of it. The softer ground and constantly changing terrain will challenge your body in a different way, and if you’ve got mountains nearby, some steep climbs will help you return to running stronger.

Volleyball

Volleyball is a great option, because it doesn’t involve a lot of running. It may not help improve your running much, but since it’s played on teams, it’ll give you a chance to get out and socialize if it’s the camaraderie of your running group that you truly miss. 

Pickleball

Tennis’s low-impact cousin has been taking the country by storm, and pickleball courts have been popping up in local parks everywhere. Pickleball requires much less running and lateral movement than tennis (which is likely not a great idea when you’re injured). It can be a lot of fun to play with a few friends, and serves as a great distraction while you take some time off from running.

Golf

Take a walk, add some sand traps and swing a stick around, and you’ve got golf! Forgo the cart and carry your bag, and suddenly you’ve also got a decent workout. Plus, it’s a great way to get outside for long periods, if it’s that fresh-air feeling that you miss when you’re on the sidelines.

Rock climbing

Want to improve your core strength while you’re out of the running game? Rock climbing is your answer. As a bonus, it’s also a good way to work on proprioception, which will have a positive effect on your running form when you return to your training.

Skiing

If you’re injured during the winter, why not use the weather to your advantage? Cross-country skiing, of course, will help you maintain (or even improve) your cardiovascular fitness without the impact of running, but alpine skiing can also improve your core and lower-body strength.

Yoga

OK, yoga isn’t exactly a sport, but it’s an excellent activity to do when you’re injured. It can improve your core strength, balance and proprioception, as well as teaching you how to control your breath and loosen tight muscles. And what runner doesn’t have tight muscles?