Is it possible to improve your run training without running? The answer is Yes. This is a little bit of an exaggeration; however, it is possible to improve your running by adding on a training component that involves very little running. It is called Functional Fitness - this is CrossFit.

This May Rogue Training Systems and CrossFit Central are teaming up to bring functional fitness to runners in the Austin area. Ruth England, CoFounder of Rogue and Jeremy Thiel CoFounder of CrossFit Central gave me their take on working together and the hybrid program called CrossFit Central Rogue Training.

Rogue Running was created in 2004 by Steve Sisson, Ruth England, and Carolyn Mangold. This company is an Austin based source for athletes involved or interested in road running, trail running, biking, swimming, triathlons, half marathons, full marathons, and overall health and fitness. Rogue seeks to create an authentic community of athletes discovering running a path to physical, mental and spiritual potential. They provide excellent information pertinent to runners, swimmers, and triathletes including articles on footwear and training videos.

A few months ago Jeremy Thiel, Steve Sisson, and Ruth England sat down to discuss the possibility of bringing a program similar to CrossFit Central’s training to the Rogue facility and tailor it for runners. Jeremy Thiel, an avid runner himself, new CrossFit Central would be able to create a dynamic program appropriate for runners from all levels of experience and skill. In teaming up with Rogue Running Jeremy created a program called CrossFit Central Rogue Training. This is a hybrid program that will combine elements of the CrossFit Central Indoor Training and Boot Camp.

Jeremy is a Triathlete, Marathon Runner, and CrossFit Central Instructor. He coaches marathon and 1/2 marathon, sprint and Olympic distance triathlons for adults, as well as Speed and Agility training for youths.

If there is minimal running in this program, how does this help runner improve their skill?

"Running is a one dimensional, linear motion. When you run - you only run forward. So you're never completely reaching full range of motion. This is limiting to a runner. In CrossFit Functional training you move in a multi-directional movement pattern. You're doing both linear and lateral movements. This will develop balance and allow a runner to be more effective."

So this program is for experienced runners, looking to be a better runner?

“Not exactly - The training is designed so that an experienced runner, whos run in marathons, and a person who has never even run a 5K will perform the same workout side by side. So it's for everyone, all experience and all fitness levels”

Rogue is an exceptional program , how does CrossFit Central feel about teaming up with them?

“Rogue leads a great program for athletes in Austin. They demonstrate how fitness can be fun, healthy, and bring people together. We are very excited to team up with the best run program in the city!”

Ruth England began running competitively in 1997, while rooming with a college cross country runner. Since that time Ruth has run in many 5Ks, Half Marathons, and Marathons.

What will CrossFit Central Rogue Training do for runners?

“A great benefit of this program for runners will be injury prevention. This is obtained by strengthening the muscles used in running and ancillary muscles not used in running. CrossFit Central Rogue Training will also improve posture and strength which will help a runner’s biomechanics.”

What is your take on CrossFit Central and Rogue teaming up?

“I had heard about CrossFit Central from other runners and through a web search. CrossFit Central and Rogue Running are terrific complements to each other. CrossFit is ideal for the runner needing a break who wants to improve their running and body conditioning. And it is great in season to maintain strength, range of motion, and overall strength. Runners will see improvements in their performances after adopting CrossFit into their training schedules. The two companies are run by enthusiastic & passionate athletes and are committed to building a community of healthy people who integrate exercise into their daily lives.”

The program will begin April 29th at the Rogue Facility. ln May classes will be held Tues/Thurs 6:45-7:45am. Starting in June this program will expand and add a 3 days a week program as well as an evening class. For more information contact Jeremy Thiel: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it