Cutting back on running~

Do you ever need a break from running?  I feel like I have been cheating on running with so many other sports/activities/classes this entire year.  I usually burn out a little in the summer and cut back my runs, but this whole year I have lightened up my running routine a lot.  Since I don't have any races until October, I still get in about 3 runs each week (10-15 miles), but they are more for fun.

And guess what...  I got a PR in the 5K and Half this spring.  I did run further and get in my long runs during half training, but I think the cross training and branching out have been great for me!  So what have I been up to?

Volleyball-I play year round indoor volleyball with a group of girls.  We are mediocre at best, but always have lots of laughs while we sweat it out on the court.   I'm playing in a tournament in a couple of weeks to get ready for a session of sand volleyball with my 4's team.  It should be a fun day of volleyball!

Classes at Bar Method-I LOVE the classes.  The isometric exercises and smaller movements make my muscles shake and I love it!!  Plus, the stretching is so good!!

Indoor cycling-I bought the indoor bike trainer for colder months.  I really like getting on the bike for a ride while I watch a show.  Thank you Netflix!  I want a treadmill, but this was a MUCH cheaper alternative.

Corporate Challenge-all of the various sports in Corporate Challenge are always so fun.  I ended up participating in: the half marathon, table tennis, track (400M, 100M, long jump, Sprint Medley Relay, Mile Relay), soccer, flag football, and volleyball. This year my favorite was flag football.  The 2 days filled with sprinting and scoring were a really great time!!

At home workouts-from yoga to pyramid workouts to backyard workouts...anything to get in a little exercise at home.  I did this new pyramid (technically half pyramid) workout when I only had 15 minutes of free time one night.  It is a good and quick way to get your heart rate up and would be killer to go 100 to 10 and then 10 back to 100.

I have also been enjoying lighter runs/walks with the pup and sometimes we let Bobby come along too.  There is no pressure...just making sure the dog doesn't overheat.

What is your favorite non-running exercise?  
Do you take breaks from running? 

Today I’m linking up with the Amanda for another episode of Thursdays are for Thinking Out Loud.  Head over here to check out the linkup.