When you think of the word athletic, you probably picture someone who is strong, enduring, muscular, and agile – someone who is well-trained in every way. This is a person who can perform both in strength and endurance. With hybrid training, you can build this balance by combining different types of training for optimal performance.
Hybrid training means combining strength training and cardio in the same program. Instead of specializing in just one form of training, you get the best of both worlds: strength, endurance, and functionality. This is perfect for those who want to develop an athletic body and also improve their overall performance in training, sports, or everyday activities.
Functional training in hybrid training
Just like in traditional athletic training, compound exercises and functional movements are a cornerstone of hybrid training. Exercises like pull-ups, push-ups, box jumps, and squats engage multiple muscle groups and improve body control and stability, while also building strength and endurance. By combining these with high-intensity cardio exercises (such as running or cycling), you maximize your training results and create a balanced, functional body.
Reps and variation
When training to become more athletic through hybrid training, you can experiment with rep ranges. Strength training is combined with high-intensity interval training or endurance training, which means working with higher repetitions and shorter rest periods. The goal is not just to build strength, but also to develop endurance and explosiveness by pushing yourself outside your comfort zone.
Perform outside your comfort zone
The most important thing for success in hybrid training is to push yourself both in strength exercises and in the cardio portion. There is no true athlete or hybrid athlete who leaves a workout without having worked up a serious sweat. By alternating between heavy strength training and high-intensity cardio, you develop both strength and endurance at the same time. The key is to consistently push yourself to see results.
Core training and posture
The core is also a central part of hybrid training. Whether you’re lifting heavy weights or performing faster movements like sprints or jumps, you need a strong core for stability and power. A strong core is not only important for protecting your back during training but also for ensuring good posture—something that is crucial for performing efficiently and avoiding injuries.
Nutrition and recovery
Nutrition is just as important in hybrid training as in traditional training. To perform at your best in both strength and cardio training, you need a diet that supports both muscle growth and recovery. We often focus on getting enough protein, but carbohydrates provide the energy needed for the high-intensity parts of your training, so they are equally important here. Don’t forget the importance of rest and recovery to avoid overtraining and maximize your results.
Summary
Hybrid training combines strength and cardio in a way that helps you develop a strong, enduring, and functional body. By focusing on both strength and endurance, you can build an athletic physique capable of various types of performance while maximizing your results in less time. Challenge yourself with varied workouts, and make sure your nutrition supports both your performance and recovery.
Check out our hybrid programs inside the Livity app—we’re confident you’ll find something that suits you and your goals!
Amanda Dresh Sandström
