Training

We’ve all heard it: 180 steps per minute. Target it. It’s the ideal number. You’re less efficient and more injury prone if you are taking fewer steps per minute.

Reality isn’t that simple.

Why one cadence is not right for everyoneRead More »

It’s the time of the year where we’re planning out our racing seasons for next year and setting our goals. How do you go about setting a good goal, though? You want a goal that will challenge you without feeling overwhelming.

In other fields, you may have heard of SMART goals. I think the SMART goal concept works very well for runners. But how does it apply to runners?

SMART goals for the runnerRead More »

Not long ago, I was listening to a podcast about goal setting. It brought up an idea that I found interesting and made an interesting case for it. To be honest, it goes against what I’ve done in the past but I see the argument in favor of it.

The idea is that goals should be set so you can achieve them at least 80% of the time. Essentially, don’t chase incredibly tough goals. Instead, set yourself up for success most of the time but sometimes challenge yourself with a tough goal.

Goals: set them so you will succeed most of the timeRead More »

It’s that time of the year again. Fitness advice is flying around everywhere.

As with most fitness advice you can find in December and January, there’s a lot of bad out there. One of my favorites: what’s better?

What’s better: very long runs at a slow pace or shorter long runs at a faster pace? What’s better: short intervals or long intervals? What’s better: interval workouts or tempo runs?

My personal favorite. What’s better: long, slow endurance or interval training?

What’s better?Read More »

Two weeks ago, I ran 65 miles. Last week, I ran 50 miles. Which week was better?

Trick question. I didn’t give you enough information.

Now, which week was better?

The numbers don’t tell the whole storyRead More »