The Strength Running Podcast

Cross-Training Masterclass: Coach Megan Flanagan on How to Add Other Sports to Your Running

49 snips
Oct 2, 2025
Megan Flanagan, a certified running coach and former collegiate athlete, shares her expertise on how cross-training can enhance running performance. She discusses the benefits of integrating activities like cycling, yoga, and swimming to improve durability and prevent injuries. Megan emphasizes the importance of strategically placing workouts and knowing which sports to avoid close to races. From climbing's strength-building advantages to designing training schedules, she provides valuable insights for runners looking to diversify their training while maintaining optimal performance.
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INSIGHT

Cross-Training Complements Running Specificity

  • Cross-training fills movement and strength gaps that running alone doesn't address, like lateral movement and rotation.
  • Megan Flanagan argues balanced multi-sport work reduces brittleness and injury risk while supporting running performance.
ADVICE

Make Strength Training Non-Negotiable

  • Prioritize progressive strength training one to two times weekly as a non-negotiable cross-training element.
  • Treat strength as additive to running and avoid using other activities as a substitute for progressive overload.
INSIGHT

Low-Impact Work Extends Endurance

  • Low-impact modalities like biking, skiing, and swimming extend endurance with low mechanical stress.
  • Megan warns these activities are less running-specific and must be sprinkled in, not substituted for running.
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