cross training: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal to Neutral
Quick answer
What does “cross training” mean?
Training in multiple sports or activities to improve overall fitness and prevent overuse injuries.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Training in multiple sports or activities to improve overall fitness and prevent overuse injuries.
Also refers to training employees in different roles within an organization to increase versatility and resilience.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Hyphenation is optional in both varieties, but slightly more common in British English ('cross-training'). American English often uses the open compound ('cross training').
Connotations
In both varieties, primarily associated with fitness and human resources. Slight business connotation stronger in American corporate jargon.
Frequency
High frequency in fitness/wellness and business/HR contexts in both regions. Roughly equal frequency.
Grammar
How to Use “cross training” in a Sentence
N + for + NP (cross training for runners)N + in + NP (cross training in different departments)N + to + INF (cross training to improve)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cross training” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She decided to cross-train by adding Pilates to her running regimen.
- The manager encouraged staff to cross-train in customer service.
American English
- He cross-trains three days a week at the local gym.
- Our company policy is to cross-train all new hires.
adverb
British English
- This is not typically used as an adverb. The phrase 'for cross-training purposes' functions adverbially.
American English
- This is not typically used as an adverb. The phrase 'as part of cross-training' functions adverbially.
adjective
British English
- She followed a strict cross-training schedule.
- The cross-training benefits were evident in his improved stamina.
American English
- He bought new cross-training shoes for the gym.
- We implemented a cross-training program for the sales team.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Systematic training of employees to perform tasks in multiple roles or departments, enhancing operational flexibility.
Academic
Studied in sports science regarding physiological adaptation and in management literature regarding workforce development.
Everyday
Refers to doing different types of exercise (e.g., a runner also swimming and cycling) to stay fit and avoid boredom.
Technical
In sports medicine, a regimen to develop complementary muscle groups and energy systems while reducing injury risk from repetitive strain.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cross training”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cross training”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cross training”
- Using 'crosstraining' as a verb without hyphen ('He cross trainings' is incorrect; correct: 'He cross-trains').
- Confusing with 'interdisciplinary training', which is more about academic fields.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
All three forms are accepted, but it is most commonly seen as two words ('cross training') or hyphenated as a noun or adjective ('cross-training'). The hyphenated form is often preferred in British English.
The main benefits are reducing the risk of injury from repetitive strain on the same muscle groups and improving overall fitness by developing complementary strengths and energy systems.
Yes, the verb form is 'to cross-train' (hyphenated). For example: 'She cross-trains twice a week.'
The core concept of diversification is the same. In fitness, it involves different physical activities. In business, it involves training employees to perform multiple different job functions or roles within the organization.
Training in multiple sports or activities to improve overall fitness and prevent overuse injuries.
Cross training is usually formal to neutral in register.
Cross training: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkrɒs ˌtreɪ.nɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkrɔːs ˌtreɪ.nɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Cross-train your brain (metaphorical extension for learning diverse skills).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a crossroads where different training paths meet: one for running, one for swimming, one for weights. 'Cross training' means crossing between these paths.
Conceptual Metaphor
TRAINING IS A JOURNEY (diversifying the route); THE BODY/ORGANIZATION IS A MACHINE (preventing wear on single parts).
Practice
Quiz
In a business context, what is the primary purpose of cross training employees?