Anyone read Dave Scott’s book from the 80’s? What are your thoughts on his training approach.How does his approach differ from Gale B’s?
John
I will say this. His book from the 80’s is still a lot better than some books coming out in the last years. But it is clearly outdated in some aspects.
Outdated in what aspects?
No offence to Dave, but I think that much has changed since the 80’s when this book was written. At the time it likley made sense. I think that books like this are still great at getting the basics down for a rank beginner to the sport. However, if you are looking to lift your performance to a higher level then you need to look elsewhere.
If your focus is longer distance racing, Gordo Byrn and Joe Freil’s “Going Long” is excellent. It uses what, I believe is the best of the “old school” of training mixed in with more up to date information to deliver a program that will yield great results for most/many.
Not sure if there is an equililent for short course racing.
it’s been a while since I last picked it up. If you’re familiar with more modern concepts, when you read it the outdated aspects are easy to spot.
I would agree with Fleck that Going Long is not a bad book, but it’s not entry-level stuff.