Cross Training Plans for Marathon Runners
Running 42K takes more than running. The strongest marathoners build endurance on the road and resilience off it. That’s where cross training comes in. At BeFit Runners, we integrate cross training into marathon prep with purpose. From yoga and cycling to strength and mobility, our coaching helps you train smarter, reduce injury risk, and unlock your best performance on race day.
What is cross training for marathon runners?
Cross training means using complementary workouts to support your marathon goals. It’s not just extra exercise. When done strategically, it builds aerobic capacity, strengthens stabilizers, and gives your joints a break from pounding the pavement. We design cross training routines that fit seamlessly into your marathon plan, ensuring every session has intention. Whether it’s yoga for flexibility, cycling for low-impact cardio, or resistance training for power, your cross training supports your running instead of competing with it.
Who is this coaching for?
- Marathoners who want to avoid overuse injuries and burnout
- Runners looking to improve efficiency and strength
- Athletes who enjoy mixing up training with cycling, swimming, or yoga
- Professionals with limited time who need efficient cross training options
- Anyone training for a marathon who wants more balance and longevity
How to know if this is the right fit for you
- You’ve struggled with high-mileage plans that left you drained or injured
- You want a training plan that includes cycling, swimming, rowing, or strength
- You’re balancing marathon prep with work, travel, or parenting
- You want to build endurance without constantly pounding the pavement
- You know cross training helps—but you want expert guidance on how to do it right
- Marathoners who want to avoid overuse injuries and burnout
- Runners looking to improve efficiency and strength
- Athletes who enjoy mixing up training with cycling, swimming, or yoga
- Professionals with limited time who need efficient cross training options
- Anyone training for a marathon who wants more balance and longevity
How we coach cross training at BeFit Runners
- Personalized weekly plans with cross training integrated into your running
- Endurance-focused workouts like cycling, pool running, elliptical, and rowing
- Strength & mobility sessions designed to prevent injuries and improve form
- Strategic recovery days and rest weeks to protect your nervous system
- Ongoing feedback and plan adjustments so you’re never guessing
- Race-specific prep including tapering and fueling guidance
Why BeFit?
Because marathoners deserve more than mileage. Our coaching balances intensity with recovery, so your body adapts and thrives instead of breaking down. Our team includes certified running coaches, yoga and mobility instructors, strength trainers, and experienced marathoners who know the science and the lifestyle of training for 42K. We’ve seen firsthand how cross training keeps runners consistent and confident through the full training cycle.
What we will cover in your plan:
- Weekly cross training sessions integrated into your marathon program
- Strength and conditioning for power and injury prevention
- Mobility and yoga routines for flexibility and recovery
- Low-impact cardio options for endurance without stress
- Periodized planning that balances running volume with cross training
- Guidance on how to adjust sessions around work, travel, and fatigue
With BeFit, your marathon training isn’t just about logging miles. It’s about building the complete athlete.
Resources to support your training
Hi, I'm Coach Kari.
Many of my athletes come to me because they no longer enjoy running, whether due to injuries or simply because their performance isn't improving. I want to help you break this vicious cycle and find joy in running again. With my running training, you'll improve your technique and become a stronger runner.
Basic Membership
$70/usd mensual
Access to the Be Fit Runners app with personalized running training tailored to your running level: 10K, 21K, and 42K, loaded into a watch-compatible app. Strength training plans, yoga classes, cycling classes, coaching, and monthly running tracking are available, plus access to the running community.
Premium Membership
$190/usd mensual
All of the above personalized nutrition from our sports nutritionist who will prepare you for your tests to improve performance and competition times from 10K to marathon.
We also improve your body composition.
- Includes 2 sessions with Nutrition
BeFit Runners Plus Membership
$19.90/usd
Specialized content for runners.
✅ Workout videos designed to improve your performance 🏋️♂️
✅ Science-based sports nutrition guides 🥗💪
✅ Ebooks and audiobooks specialized in running 📖🎧
✅ Races narrated by Pau Jiménez, Mexican announcer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cross-training for marathons?
The best cross-training complements your running, not competes with it. We recommend low-impact, endurance-boosting activities like cycling, swimming, rowing, and elliptical training. Strength work and mobility sessions are also essential to keep you injury-free.
How much cross-training to do during marathon training?
Most runners benefit from one to two cross-training sessions per week during marathon prep. Activities like cycling, swimming, or rowing build aerobic capacity without the pounding of extra miles, while strength and mobility work support running form and reduce injury risk. The right amount depends on your mileage, experience, and recovery needs. At BeFit, our virtual membership personalizes cross-training within your plan so it complements your running, keeps you consistent, and helps you arrive at the start line strong and healthy.
Can I really train for a marathon without running every day?
Yes, and you probably should. Running every single day isn’t necessary (or smart) for most athletes. Strategic rest days and cross-training can actually improve performance and reduce injury risk.
What are examples of cross-training?
workouts, Rowing, Strength training (bodyweight, bands, weights), Yoga or Pilates for mobility and recovery
Is cross-training effective for injury prevention?
Absolutely. It reduces repetitive strain on your joints, improves muscle balance, and helps you recover faster, making it one of the most effective ways to train consistently and stay injury-free.