Inexperienced coaches often start their season planning with a quick search for the ‘secret sauce’ used by the country’s top programs. They stumble upon legendary workouts like ‘The Michigan’—sessions that sound epic, garner hype for being borderline sadistic, and feel undeniably cool. It has a name, it has the allure, and it worked for the…
The Saltmarsh Guide to Freshman Mileage Many high school coaches are so terrified of “breaking” a freshman that they accidentally train them to be slow forever. They treat 14-year-olds like fragile porcelain dolls, capping them at 15 miles a week of junk mileage, terrified that a long run will snap a growth plate. The reality?…
Extending Training Time at Goal Race Pace: A Case Study To increase my athletes’ training time at their goal race pace, I’ve adopted a method inspired by Mahaly Igloi: consecutive high-intensity intervals with active recovery. This method has proven successful for my athletes at a variety of ability levels. The Challenge of Race-Pace Training It’s…
Summer road races are lots of fun, but heat stroke is deadly serious. High temperatures and humidity increase the risk of heat-related illness or death among runners. Masters runners are especially susceptible. It’s important to practice prevention, recognize the danger signs, and be good to yourself when racing in the heat. Surprisingly, the risks of heat stroke or…
I’ve participated in two road races where a runner has died on the course. Their tragic and unexpected deaths shocked everyone. Both runners were regulars on the local racing circuit. On both days the temperatures had climbed well past 90º F during the race. Runners feel a certain degree of invincibility earned through healthy living and regular workouts. But, when…
Run Fast. Eat Slow. As a runner, a father of two, I totally support this philosophy. Healthy meals fuel our runs. But, just as important, mealtime should be a time for conversation, relaxation and good food. A breakfast conversation about the day ahead, a lunch with colleagues, and a dinner with family members full of lively…