Are you putting in the miles but not seeing the results you want? You’re not alone. Many runners focus on intensity, but overlook a crucial factor: timing. In this post, we’ll explore how a simple schedule change can transform your training and help you achieve better results with no extra effort.
The Common Mistake:
A conversation I have time and time again with runners new to coaching is around when they do their runs. It’s a really important area that’s almost always overlooked.
Let’s look at a typical running schedule:
- Monday: Hard run
- Tuesday: Hard run
- Wednesday: Easy run
- Thursday: Easy run
- Friday: Rest
- Saturday: Rest
- Sunday: Rest
While this schedule includes hard and easy runs, the timing could be optimised for better recovery and performance.
The Solution: Smarter Scheduling
Switching to a schedule that prioritises recovery between hard runs can lead to significant gains. Consider this alternative:
- Monday: Hard run
- Tuesday: Rest
- Wednesday: Easy run
- Thursday: Hard run
- Friday: Rest
- Saturday: Easy run
- Sunday: Rest
Notice how this schedule allows for better recovery between hard runs. This recovery is where the gains are made. No additional time or effort is required, just smarter running.
Timing Over Intensity:
Think timing over intensity. You’ll achieve better results by giving maximum effort in your hard runs and taking it easy in your recovery runs, rather than working equally hard in all of them.
Train, recover, grow, repeat.
If you’re going to put the time and effort in anyway, it makes sense to get the most out of it.
By strategically timing your runs, you can optimise your training and achieve better results without putting in extra effort. It’s all about training smart and running happy.
Ready to transform your running and enjoy years of consistent progress? Discover our personalised training plans here.