Master Your Fitness Maths

Fanatical about one form of exercise? Adding another workout into the mix could round out your workout regime and improve your performance. Try one of these perfect pairings

- Jessica Powell

RUNNING + PLYOMETRICS

WHY? ‘Around 99% of people I see run have poor technique – running in a ‘seated position’, sitting back and dragging their feet,’ says Brian Walpole, Director of Personal Training at Workshop Gymnasium (workshopgymnasium.com). ‘By contrast, professional runners look like they’re on springs – running in an upright position, lifting off with every stride. Each time they hit the ground their tendons and ligaments store energy, which propels them back into the air, meaning they don’t use as much energy from muscles, so don’t get tired as quickly. Plyometric training (ie, jumping exercises) helps build strong, ‘springy’ tendons and ligaments. I think it’s madness for any runner not to do it!’

HOW MUCH? A 15-minute session, three-four times a week, suggests Brian.

MUST-DO MOVE = THE JUMP SQUAT

Start in a squat, jump explosively into the air, land, squat back down and repeat. Do 4x10 reps, suggests Brian. It will also strengthen glutes and legs to increase running power.

HIIT + YOGA

WHY? ‘High-intensity interval training classes involve loads of fast reps with usually little emphasis on good form,’ notes personal trainer and founder of Tate Wellness, Si Tate (tatewellness.com). ‘By becoming more aware of alignment through yoga, it can feed back into your HIIT classes, reducing injury risk. Yoga also eases muscles tight from intensive training and offers relaxation.’