What are some good cross training strategies to improve my cycling endurance and prevent overuse injuries?

As with any sport it is always a good idea to cross train to increase your overall fitness and lower your risk of injury. Whole body exercises such as yoga, pilates, and tai chi will serve double duty by increasing your core strength and flexibility while at the same time allowing your knees and back to recover from cycling. Elliptical trainers, running or walking at a fast pace, cross country skiing and hiking are also great options, assuming you can perform them without any joint pain (muscle “burn” is a good thing, joint pain is not).