Is Cycling a good thing to help improve your distance running?

[Alanson]

Im a distance runner but I also like to cycle alot. I do 15-20 miles a day of cycling (and 3-6 of running) and I was wondering if its doing me any good with my distance running or if its actualy doing harm.

[rvklassen]

I'm not much of a distance runner, but I do orienteer (normally some combination of running and walking of 5-10 km, mostly off-trail, while trying to navigate accurately despite getting tired from the running).  Last year my cycling mileage went up markedly when we got a tandem.  I found myself able to run more of the course.   So I'd have to say yes.  What it does is allow you to work on the cardio without having your knees take the punishment that running will give them.

[johnsondasw]

I think it's good to cross train, so you don't wear the same parts out all the time.  I bike, lift weights, rock climb, and rock climb.  If I focus too much on any one sport, I get achy and actually start to get worse it it.  After a break, then I'm reenergized.  Because I enjoyu all those activities, it's always fun!

[Turk]

In my experience it doesn't hurt your running but doesn't help that much. If what you want is to improve your distance running you're best off working on a running program.

[brad]

I am an ultramarathoner and I find that cycling is a nice break for the legs, but I run on average about 40-50 miles per week. In running there is no substitute for running but it can help maintain overall fitness and add variety to your workout. I commute about 15 miles daily on my bike and have pretty much quit training for competitive cycling and instead just focus on touring/commuting when it comes to bikes. However, remember that many iron-distance triathletes spend the majority of their time in the saddle while training but still turn pretty good marathon times. If you have some specific questions email me at jason.b.nicholson@gmail.com Cheers!

[DaveB]

In my experience it doesn't hurt your running but doesn't help that much. If what you want is to improve your distance running you're best off working on a running program.

My experience is that cycling can help maintain or increase your overall fitness but it does hurt your running, not your endurance but your stride.