I’m looking to move from IM to Olympic distance racing next year and wondering if anyone has adapted their long distance methods for the short, fast stuff?
Given the same number of hours to train per week (10-20+ per week depending on period), how is this training adapted for short course? If the hours remain the same, but the workouts are more intense, how does the body hold up? Or is an almost mandatory reduction in training hours?
Any suggestions?
Can’t really help much since I only do short, but I believe this has been discussed in detail over on Gordo’s site/forum.
Good move!
I am a novice Oly racer and can speak more as a pretty experienced runner who went from doing marathons to PRing in much shorter distances lately.
In running, just decrease the volume. I went from 40 miles a week average to 30 and now I am faster. Intervals on the track and lots of hills help, too. lately, I am all about 200s, 300s, 800s and 1200s (repeats: 10x200 or 4x1200 or so) in pursuing faster 5k and 10k times. Get to the track every week, or twice, if possible. Nothing wrong with running 3 to 7 miles a week (20 to 50 minutes) at high intensity out of a total of 30.
cheers and good luck,
TB
I have moved back to short distance this year. . .
You’ve got to add serious speed back into the mix. . .
2x20 and 6x5 bike intervals
Mile repeats and quarters on the running track.
Swim, for me remains the same. .
I found that my top end was suffering after last year’s long distance training focus, and even more, I suppose, from the accident imposed break. . .
I’m only now pushing my 5k times back down to the high 15s/low 16s. . .
have moved back to short distance this year. . .
You’ve got to add serious speed back into the mix. . .
How hard or easy have you found the transition to be? Do you find that your aerobic base is a good foundation for the speedwork, or is the more intense stuff a shock to the system?