Double threshold training (aka the “Norwegian Method” of training) popularized by the Ingebrigtsen brothers, has seemingly taken over the running world as I wrote about recently.
But is it so good and, if so, what makes it so good?
Well, there’s now some research on the training and this addresses that research as well as offers thoughts that delve into why it might be beneficial.
In short, by controlling a few factors that will keep your blood lactate levels low and then making sure you’re keeping them low, you can do more volume at intensity, even an intensity that we would normally not associate with lactate threshold training or staying below certain lactate benchmarks.
It appears that, by keeping your lactate low, you’re moderating your overall workload (which I will add may not be caused by keeping it low but just related – correlation, maybe not causation) you’re allowing yourself to recover more quickly and do more work at intensity. Interesting thoughts.
It also sounds like more research might be coming on whether this training is really superior to other methods of training. Of course, that’s the million dollar question.
The post Kipchoge era of the marathon: After what Kelvin Kiptum did in Chicago, it appears the post Kipchoge era may be upon us. If not, it’s not far away. So what does this mean? And what about all the records? They seem to be everywhere, with times dropping like a rock. Or are they?
What are the limiters of ultrarunning performance? Interesting question. There are, of course, multiple factors. Some are as expected, some might not be. The real question, of course, is how do we push back the limits? While there are some thoughts, there’s still a lot to learn in that regard.
How to train for long term success: While everyone is different, the general guideline that research suggests works best is the opposite of “old school” coaching.
Sore after a workout? We all get sore after workouts sometimes. Here are some good thoughts on how to deal with that, most of which you might already know but all of which are good to keep in mind.
The Norwegian method is extremely interesting especially with the INSCYD software. While it seems there is a lot of info now regarding what it is and how to do it the one area I have found lacking is the availability of reliable accurate measurement devices. Have you got any insight into this topic?
Hello Kathleen,
Sadly, I do not. I know elites and some big collegiate programs have testing equipment and do the testing right at the track between repeats but this would be quite expensive for most of us to do. This is the biggest missing piece for bringing the idea to the masses, though not the only reason I don’t really think it is a good fit for most of us. That said, we should always be trying to learn from the best if we want to be our best, which is why I’ve been bringing up this topic. While the equipment as well as the time and energy needed probably wouldn’t work for the typical “recreationally competitive” runner, there are lessons that can be applied.