does cross-training work for cross-country?

For anyone who knows me I get bored easily. The idea of training for this ride by riding the same route over and over again simply won't work.

What I'm currently trying is a mix of rides (every other day, each different), running (mostly treadmill), swimming, and the Wii.

Yesterday was my first day back on the treadmill in over a year and it was not a pretty site. By the end of a 30 minute "run" I was wondering if I was going to die.

The treadmill experience did help motivate me get back on the bike this morning and get another 30 miles in. I often tell people that when you ride daily you get stronger each day. While I still believe this is true, the ride this morning also reminded me that as I get older the progress is slower;)