I love running, and that is how I began to successfully lose weight and fight my depression. Once I decided to actually train for a race I knew I was going to have to cross train. Cross training is any form of exercise that isnt running. My main form of cross training is working on my elliptical. I have it in my living room so I can supervise my children and watch TV or read if the kids are asleep. The elliptical I purchased is the Keys Discovery 5.2EL. It cost under $300 from www.overstock.com . I like it, Im not in love with it, but it works and thats what really matters.I also really enjoy Pilates, I have to do it when the kids are in bed but wow, if you want an amazing core work out give pilates a shot! I have the DVD called The Method-Pilates-Precision Toning. I got it off of Amazon for under $20 I think. Great investment!
This past Christmas I recieved a bike and a Schwinn Bike trailer I really enjoy getting the kids out in it but getting it all hooked up can be a pain. Its much easier to throw them in the double stroller and go running so I dont take the bike out nearly as often as I should. Im looking forward to summer and taking them in it more often.
Stretching probably isnt thought of as cross training by most but its so important! I can easily spend half an hour or more on the floor stretching out my muscles. Ive noticed since I started running Ive lost some of my flexibility. But Im not overly concerned about that, I am aiming for loose muscles to help with injury prevention.