The last decade there have been few top Americans in major triathlons. But yet, we have some of the finest facilities, weather, as for example, in the San Diego area where many triathletes train, great equipment and many “experts” in triathlon training.
I believe the major reason for this lack of success in major triathlons is that most triathletes are not applying the latest in training science. If magazines such as Triathlete, which as far as I can tell is a major source for information, do not have the latest in science — which they do not — it is understandable that the best information does not get to the athletes.
For example, in a recent issue of Triathlete Magazine, it was stated that in order to improve running, the triathlete should briefly accelerate running training in the late off-season and early base training period of training. ” The accelerated development that is yielded by a run-focus period comes as a result of a higher-than-normal training workload. There is no other way to get the job done.”
This statement is based on an increase in the amount of running done, not on quality of training which should be the focus in the off-season and early base training. This means the runner should work more on technique and do specialized srength exercises that duplicate what occurs in the running stride. Doing this will bring about greater results than merely doing more running.
The article went on to state that, “There are two keys to preventing an early fitness peak while still training intensively. The first key is simply to hold yourself back just a little. The second key is to train very generally instead of training very specifically for your peak race. But if you train generally what is the purpose of more intense training? It appears that the author is recommending more volume and intensity, not quality of work.
The idea behind doing more concentrated work on running is based on what is known as block training. It is very effective but mainly for high-level athletes not for beginners and in the early period of training. It is generally done immediately prior to the season or in season to specifically work on one or two qualities which the athlete needs. This type of training is not for beginners.
In addition any emphasis or increased amount of training on a specific event should spell out in detail exactly what elements should be worked on. Merely doing “accelerated” work does not tell the reader if it should be more concentration on technique, strength training — general or specific — or aerobic or anaerobic work. This again indicates a lack of scientific knowledge or substantiation for the recommendations been given.