Burn-Out or Breakdown Training (Once a Runner)
by Mike
(New Jersey)
I have been reading Once a Runner and I understand it is fiction and all that, but is the idea of training to the point of and past the point of breaking down mentioned in the book a good actual method of training?
 |
Answer by Dominique:
Hi Mike,
Thanks for your question.
When you are training for a big race and are aiming to improve yourself there is nothing wrong with tough training sessions.
You need to push yourself in order to become faster. Push yourself too hard though and you can harm yourself. So, pushing yourself is great, but you need to be sensible about it.
It's been so long since I have read the book, wasn't the guy in there running shorter distances predominantly, i.e. mile-distance?
For runners competing in shorter distances like that there should be, at the right point in their running program, a lot of focus on tough interval sessions.
And the serious long-distance runner will do a variety of tough long distance, tempo and interval sessions.
When you are newer to the sport you stimulate your body enough by just adding mileage though.
So, "breakdown" sessions help improve the performance of the (semi-)elite athlete, but they are for people who are in good health and they are not the best solution for everybody.
Hope this helps.
Kind regards,
Dominique
Helpful
Resources
-
Beginner Running Tips
Are you a beginning runner? Then this is your best starting point. Many tips and running programs on offer, dedicated to you.
-
Running for Weight Loss
Aiming to lose a few pounds? Get into the Running for Weight Loss section for tips and advice.
-
Running Training
The Running Training section of the site has got the most articles. It is constantly getting updated with new tips and information. A must-visit if you are serious about improving your running performance.
-
5k Running Tips
The 5k is a great distance to run and train for. The great thing is that you can do it quite often and see big improvements.
-
10k Running Tips
The 10k is a real challenge. You need to run fast for an uncomfortably long time! Check out this section if you are strong of mind and legs!
-
Marathon Running Tips
The marathon is a massive challenge. Proper training is so important! Make sure to check out this section if you have got your mind set on the marathon!
