The words “fasting” and “training” may seem like polar opposites. After all, food = energy and we need energy to train effectively. While this is definitely true, fasted training does have its benefits. Let’s first tap into the key source of our energy as runners, glycogen, and explain how it Read more…
Many runners have an idea of what interval training is. I run for a specific distance or time, rest for a specific distance or time, and then repeat for certain number of times. With all these variables (time, distance, rest, total volume), the options for interval workouts seem endless. How Read more…
UPDATE: January 13, 2018 – I can run again!!! After a thorough exam which resulted in no pain, my doctor gave me the green light to get back to running, or should I say jogging. He made it pretty clear to keep the pace slow and the duration short as Read more…
Anyone can set a goal. A goal to lose weight. A goal to set a new personal best. Perhaps, a goal to get ahead in your career. This goal-setting process is enjoyable and easy to do. We imagine how great it would be to attain this goal and how awesome Read more…
It can feel overwhelming at times thinking about how to put together a training plan. Hill repeats, tempo runs, intervals, long runs, fartleks – and don’t forget easy runs! These (and more!) are all ingredients that make up a successful runner’s diet. The challenge then is how much to do Read more…
We’ve all been there. Am I training hard enough? Am I training TOO hard? Should I be feeling this tired? Should I train through this or take a break? It’s one of the most difficult balances in running: Training hard enough to maximize your fitness and ability, but not training so Read more…
Gaining fitness is a full-time job whether you’re a professional athlete or not. It’s not something to clock in and out of and expect to see results. I’m NOT saying one must workout constantly every day and make endless sacrifices to improve fitness. What AM I saying? Having a constant Read more…
The most important attribute a player must have is mental toughness. – Mia Hamm. The mental side of running doesn’t get much mention, but that certainly doesn’t make it less important. In his book “Mind Gym”, Gary Mack describes the mind as a legitimate performance enhancing drug when used fully Read more…
Much attention is paid to the major muscle groups in running – hamstrings, quads, core muscles. These muscles do a lot for a runner in maintaining stability and strength in a stride. But what about the feet? Our feet are the first part of the body to hit the ground. Read more…
We make running too difficult sometimes. It really is rather simple compared to other sports, which is part of the reason for its popularity. Let’s start with what it takes to be a successful marathon runner and back our way into what makes for successful training. I will break down Read more…