Components of fitness for cross country?

Answer 1

First of all, lets run through all the different types of fitness components:

Health Related: Cardiovascular Endurance, Muscular Endurance, Strength, Flexibility.

Skill Related: Agility, Balance, Speed, Reaction Time, Coordination, Power.

Now the Rankings (there are just my personal rankings, from first hand experience):

1) Cardiovascular Endurance

2) Muscular Endurance

3) Speed

4) Flexibility

5) Strength

6) Balance

7) Co ordination

8) Power

9) Agility

10) Reaction Time

Reaction time is at number ten because apart from when the start is triggered, its not needed at all.

Agility is at nine because you're jogging in a straight line, which doesn't require sudden quick changes of direction. You may, however, be required to step around a few people.

Power is at eight because running long distances does not require movements with excessive force. It is repetitive movement over a long period of time, however moving up steep hills may require power in the calves.

Coordination is at seven because footing can be important, especially on uneven surfaces. However, hand eye coordination is useless.

Balance is at six because it controls the weight shift of your body. Falling over may lead to injury, which can be a hinderance on a long run.

Strength is at five because the muscles must be able to work at a consistent rate over a long period of time without collapsing.

Flexibility is at four because recovery sessions focus heavily on streatching the muscles. Improper stretching after a cross country run can lead up to a build up of lactic acid.

Speed is at three because the whole aim of the event is to finish first. This isn't excessive speed, but a pace which will earn you a good position.

Muscular Endurance is at two because from start to finish, your muscles will never stop working. Flexibility and strength combine to develop this factor.

Cardiovascular Endurance is at one because heavy breathing over long periods is required. Your lungs will bear the brunt of the run.

Answer 2

i personally think you have to be good in track and be a long distance runner

Answer 3

A pair of quality running shoes, shorts and a t-shirt, a bottle of water, and a lot of guts. :)

A running watch is also helpful.

Answer 4

Endurence.