5 of 5

Write now Article Tools

The Popular term used amongst Cross Trainers is "Tour de Stad" Stad meaning stadium. For cross trainers it provides several benefits amongst which I believe there are three specific that provide the most benefits for their sports physical requirements. They are muscle strengthening, cardiovascular, and physical endurance, and ligaments, and tendon strengthening. I will explore each individually. Let me first tell you I have never run a Tour myself however, I lived with a runner who went all the time and she still is the most physically gifted woman I have ever had the grace to be associated with.

First lets compare the physical act of the running. The actual motion is continuously lifting a runners body upwards repeatedly. If in the course of as running session the runner does 5 laps and the stadium is small and has only 35 steps, and around 18 rows that means if you do the math,(35 steps x 18 rows x 5 laps = 3150 repetitions) those repetitions of lifting the runners body weight of 170-190lbs upwards. If you compared that to lifting that weight upwards on a weight machines and did it at that pace for those reps. 3150 reps of anything is to much unless of course it is carnal in nature. "Just Kidding" Anyways all the muscles in the legs are getting a complete workout.

Second is the obvious cardiovascular, and respiratory workout your getting for getting your heartbeat up to that level for that long will prepare the runners body far beyond what is needed for average competitors. Respiratory is also getting a workout in delivering the oxygen or fuel for the body or machine at this point because thats what your body has turned into with stadium running.

Finally, and probably the least obvious is the ligament and tendons strength, and flexibility training. This is essential for injury resistance, and works best when the runner is on their downward lap and are physically resisting the impact repeatedly with the ligaments and tendon which connect the bones to the muscles. So wanting these strong, and able to have a certain amount of flexibility will be greatly appreciated should any unfortunate accident befall the trainer. No competitor can compete hurt so this part becomes vital which is why I rated it so high.

Learn more about this author, Terry Coombe.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about The purpose of running stadium stairs for cross training?
We want to hear your view. Write now!