When to Train, When to Strain

[Andrew A.]

http://runningtimes.com/Print.aspx?articleID=16761

[Ed]

Given the three options I would think that Mahon's plan is best - balance.  Train well and occasionally test the limits.

[Ryan]

Interesting article. I also personally favor the Mahon approach. I also played around with the "hammer interval" concept last year, primarily doing 1-2 minute repeats with every third or fourth repeat very hard. I thought those prepared me very well to handle surges on race day.

I think this also goes back to the tempo run idea mentioned by Magill. Tempo runs, especially in base training, shouldn't leave you wiped out. That said, the occasional time trial - which essentially is a hard tempo run - can be beneficial at the right time.