-
Summer Running
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…
-
Warning: Running in the Heat
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…
-
Today We Die a Little! The Inimitable Emil Zatopek
Today We Die a Little! tells the story of the greatest Olympic runner of all time. In 1952, Emil Zatopek stunned the world by dominating the 5,000m, the 10,000m and the marathon in Helsinki, Finland. He earned three gold medals in the space of nine days. Zatopek set 18 world records, won 5 Olympic medals,…
-
Run Fast. Eat Slow. by Shalane Flanagan
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…
-
Let Your Mind Run by Deena Kastor
If there is one single take away from Let Your Mind Run by Deena Kastor, let it be this: there is no greater influence on success than the power of optimism. Emotional control and mental fortitude are necessary for one to do their very best in any event, especially distance running. Too often, we focus on the physical…
-
Hobbs Kessler: A Unique Approach to Training
Hobbs Kessler’s name should be on every coach’s radar. His recent 3:48 in the Wannamaker Mile, just two years after competing in high school, is a remarkable feat. But what truly sets him apart is his unconventional training approach challenging established norms and sparking lively discussions within the coaching community.
-
Nico Young Goes Sub-13 in the 5K!
Nico Young is the fastest 5000m runner in the college ranks. Move over Graham Blanks. On Friday, January 26, the Northern Arizona University junior shattered Blanks’ record time of 13:03.72 by running 12:57.14 at the John Thomas Terrier Classic at Boston University. Nico Young’s Pre-Meet Training Okay. Nico is definitely a stud. He’s just run a 5K…
-
Coaching the Modern High School Athlete
As a high school running coach for over a decade, I’ve witnessed the growing tension between the long-term nature of athletic development and the pervasive culture of instant gratification. We live in a world of “likes” and immediate feedback, where results are often expected overnight. This mindset can create challenges for coaches and athletes alike,…
-
Lydiard Lacing Method
Coach Arthur Lydiard was revolutionary in his approach to training middle distance and distance runners. His Training Pyramid is still the model most often used by distance coaches today and greatly influenced both Jack Daniels, Joe Vigil and others. But, did you know he also perfected a way of lacing shoes to relieve pressure on…
-
Cross-Training to Maximize Running Performance
Cross-training is more than just a tool for injured athletes; it amplifies training volume, aids recovery, and revitalizes an athlete’s passion for the sport.