Endurance Training Learning to Train Easy
Athletes completing endurance training for triathlon or running, frequently fall into the trap of doing their “easy runs/cycles/swims” too fast amongst their other training sessions.
Here are a few reasons why knowing your HR/pace/speed zones and sticking to the right pace are important:
- Remove the pressure of pacing & times and enjoy the session
- Improve endurance without additional stress from speed work on your body
- Active recovery after a day or two of intense training
How to rectify this:
- The 80/20 rule of training has been proven to increase endurance. 80% of your training at low intensity, 20% at moderate to high intensity
- Follow your prescribed sessions including recovery time- otherwise the focus of the session will change from speed to threshold or endurance
- If you struggle to stick to low intensity wear a HR monitor or use a power meter as a guide
- Get your VO2 & lactate tested by a sport physiologist so you know your accurate zones. METS Performance are our preferred providers of this service.
Need help with your training? GPC Squad have qualified & experienced coaches who write personalised weekly programs. Click here for more information.
Sources:
Mets Performance- 10 reasons why endurance athletes don’t reach their peak potential
Mets Performance- Endurance athletes- why you need to know your training zones
Training Peaks- Using the 80/20 rule to balance triathlon training
Training Peaks- The importance of easy run days
Other relevant GPC Blogs- Periodisation Triathlon & Running