From the monthly archives:

March 2010

Using Minimalism as a Tool Not a Way of Life

The minimalist debate is all wrong these days.  You have one side arguing that shoes are evil and Nike is out to profit from your ignorance.  The other side is saying we need to protect our feet and correct biomechanical imbalances.  Who do you listen to when you want to switch to minimalist running?
I say [...]

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Training Variations: Small Changes Can Help You Avoid Injury

After over eleven years of training and reading countless running books, I’ve implemented a strategy that is keeping me injury-free.  I feel better now that I have in a very long time and what’s more, I actually feel more fit with less training volume.  This tactic is from Brad Hudson who coaches elite athletes out [...]

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Gym Workouts for Runners: Functional Strength

Once per week, I head to the gym for a quick lifting session.  I believe gym workouts for runners are important, but I don’t think you need to do a lot.  Most of the strength benefits can be realized in twenty minutes per week.
I perform two sets of the same workout – I rarely deviate [...]

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2008 New York Marathon: Splits, Recap, and Thoughts

Splits
Here’s all the data before we get into a quantitative analysis:
Finish time: 2:44:38
Pace per mile: 6:17
Mile splits (first 8 miles are off):
2mile: 12:22
8mile: 48:11
Mile 9: 6:02
Mile 10: 5:50 (1:00:04
Mile 11: 6:10
Mile 12: 5:59
Mile 13: 6:02
Mile 14: 6:02
Mile 15: 6:14 (1:30:34)
Mile 16: 6:31
Mile 17: 5:55
Mile 18: 6:04
Mile 19: 6:16
Mile 20: 6:34 (2:01:58)
Mile 21: 6:28
Mile 22: 6:33
Mile [...]

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Training Journal: March 1-14, 2010

I’m very proud of the last two weeks.  These are two of my highest volume weeks since my ITB injury after the 2008 New York Marathon.  I also increased my long run to 18 miles after six weeks of 17 milers.  Progress!
Consistency is king. That phrase alone is incredible advice for continuing to improve.  Instead [...]

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How to Reduce Inflammation: 3 Tactics to Run Pain Free

Chronic inflammation from a heavy training load can increase your risk of injuries if it is not taken care of soon.  As my old coach used to say, “Don’t burn the candle at both ends.” He was saying that if you are pushing the limits on your physical performance, you can’t also push the limits [...]

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