This week’s Speedo Tip of the Week comes from Dr. David Swensen, a certified strength and conditioning specialist and assistant coach for the YMCA of the North Shore in Melrose, Mass. Swensen offers some advice on cross-training.

Swensen’s Tip:

Any cross-training activity that works the same energy systems as swimming is going to have a positive effect on your overall condition when you are in the water. There is a specific training effect in the muscles that you use for an activity if you do it enough, but there are also improvements in your heart and lung function that will help your swimming. Certainly, if you spend several months training for only running, your swimming performance will likely suffer. However, if you add some running to your usual workout program and stretch adequately after all of your workouts, running won’t be bad for you. Just don’t twist your ankle.