Eliptical trainer vs Road work

It's cardio... Boxers and coaches like to overemphasise the importance of running, it really isn't a nessesity.

Cycling, swimming, rowing, eliptical etc are all good for cardio.

Find what works for you and do that.

 

have you got orthotic insoles for your shoes yet?

 

I do 15 miles a week on the elliptical. I love not limping around like I do when I'm running.

 

I think you should go to an orthotist and gets insole. Your more than likely over pronating your feet while running and uts causing your shin splints? If you could post a video of you walking in your bare feet from behind and post a picture or video of the arches in your feet somewhere I could have a look at it and tell you if you need insoles

 

I do the majority or my cardio on the eliptical too, spending an hour running on a thread mill everyday even with good shoes and correct foot alignment is a mugs game

 

Yes of course. I think old time trainers over rate roadwork. Its good yes but there are plenty of other ways to get the lungs going. If i ran 5 or 6 times a week like the old timers suggest i would be in a wheel chair by the time im 50. Its too hard on my knees and ankles. And thats why many fighters these days run once or twice a week and use other ways to do cardio on other days. Although i wouldnt suggest a eliptical trainer. If i was you i would go for a bike (stationary or bicycle), a rowing machine, an aerodyne or a stairmaster.

 

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Yes it is true that Cycling will tighten hamstrings, but as long as you stretch daily(which everyone should do) you will be fine, flexibility may even improve. You have to take into account that kickboxers need very flexible hamstrings. Boxers dont, they need a moderate level of flexibility in hamstrings, just enough so there are no pains or niggles. Cycling will only do a boxer good, no harm.
I personally dont recomend eliptical trainers because there has been a lot of people(myself included) who have stopped running on roads etc, and used eliptical trainers to get the closest thing to running and have found that due to the mechanics of the machine your lower back can be twisting aggresively for long periods of time and lower back pain usually causes your hips to lose mobility and hurt. And the long stride of the trainer can put pressure on your front knee. And it doesnt burn as much calories. And it takes up a lot of space. But its still kinder than road running

 

You seem to over think just about everything.

 

Yes, its best to mix it up and use variety. That will be great.

One is not better than the other, they are both very good for different systems. its best to use a 50/50 split between interval work and endurance work. So everyday you could use the bike, eliptical, rower and steps. Whilst alternating long distance and intervals on the days. So monday could be endurance, tuesday intervals, wednesday endurance and so on. Just make sure you have 2 days rest or active recovery per week.