Running Rogue

In this episode, we cover the final 2 phases of your training block - the taper and the post-race recovery phases. Both are critical for hitting this peak and then getting to your next one. We give you the reasons for the taper and the mechanics of it (for volume, speed, and routine), and then we break down how to recover from your race. It is critical to taper in order to be fresh and ready for your A race, and then it is imperative to recover appropriately in order to start your next cycle on the right foot, pun intended. In this episode, we also talk about special cases, including tapering while slightly injured or sick, as well as answer questions such as "what to do with strength training during the taper?". It's time to get fresh and ready, y'all!

We continue our journey through the training phases. In this episode, we talk about the goals and guiding principles of the race-specific phase of work. This is where you put the icing on the cake or the cherry on top of the sundae. You've earned the right to be a little more aggressive, but it's time to crowd out the noise/distractions and focus on the final steps to be race-ready!

Last week was all about that base. This week is all about that aerobic strength - the aerobic strength phase of work specifically.
We think there is a lot of confusion about this phase of work and what's involved. We break it all down in this episode. It's about building endurance and staying power in order to be prepared for the race specific phase to come. We give you guidelines on volume building, sharpening, and the nature of the workouts in this phase of work with plenty of examples. 
If your base is big enough, then the next step is to get aerobic strong enough as you step toward the big day!

In this week's episode, we begin a walk (err... run) through each period of training. We start with base building, digging into what it should look like for you. What should you focus on in this phase? How should you think about the running and building your weekly mileage? What are other considerations including strength and lifestyle?
We also discuss the Maffetone Method and how it might fit into your base building plans. Have you spent an extended time on base lately? If not... we would encourage you to consider it!

We wrap up this mini-series on polarization with the final 5 questions for you. 
First, we cover Chris's experience at his first stage race - Moab Run the Rocks - put on by the great folks at TransRockies Running. It is a 3-day stage race event covering ~54 miles of trails over 3 days in/around Moab, Utah. Chris had a blast and shares a little bit about his experiences there in the first 25 minutes of this one. 
Then, we get to the final questions on polarization. Are you polarizing your training enough to optimize it? 
The full list of questions (including the 4 from part 1):
a. Are enough of your miles easy vs. hard?
b. Are you varying the distances of your runs appropriately?
c. Are your easy miles easy enough?
d. Are you doing weekly strides?
e. Are you working faster and slower than race pace in workouts?
f. Are you training for a variety of race distances over time?
g. Is there a difference between your peak training and your post-race recovery mode?
h. Are you balancing stress and rest well in training?
i. Are your race strategies structured to allow you to start smart and finish strong?
 
Now, ask yourself: how did I do on the pop quiz? If you missed on a question or two (or more), then pick 1 area to work on and go from there. You won't regret it!