Racer X Virtual Trainer

I was wondering what would be better for harescramble training. Is it better to run or is it better to ride a bike? I have been considering buying a bike trainer so i can just ride inside. would this help or would it be a waist of money?

Both have advantages and disadvantages. It is my advise to do both! But the mode of cardio you like the best is the one you will do the most. So find something you like and go for it!

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Tim Crytser
Your Virtual Trainer
www.racerxVT.com

Luke,
Great question and like Tim said, both have advantages and disadvantages. In my opinion, your ankles, knees and hips take enough abuse from riding and racing - running makes things hard for these same joints in your body. However, running burns a tremendous amount of calories (if that is a need of yours).

When it comes to cycling, it doesn't do much for your upper body (neither does running for that matter) which means you need to split up your training time for upper body strength and endurance just like you are doing for your lower body (legs, lower back and abdominals).

If you (or your gym) has a Concept 2 rower, go with the C2 rower - it uses nearly every muscle in your body, is impact free and has many settings programmed in to keep you challenged.

In regards to your harescramble speed and endurance, the key is to train the same Energy Systems (aerobic to anaerobic) off of the track as on the track to maximize your training productivity. There are numerous articles here on RacerX VT - so make sure that you check them out. If you still have some questions, please post them here at RacerX VT and we will get your questions answered.
-Robb Beams/MotoE

As Robb stated, running burns many calories. Any activity done standing as opposed to sitting is going to burn more calories.

An additional suggestion is to do interval training, whether on the bike, running, etc. Not only will you burn more energy and fat, you will be training the different energy systems Robb mentioned.

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Kim Wathen M.S.
Exercise Physiologist/Dietitian/Personal Trainer
kim@fitnessandfuel.com