Boutcher 2010 published a review article of the previous two decades’ research on interval training in relation to fat loss. The dogma within the exercise world has been steady-state ever since Dr. Cooper’s 1970s research if not earlier with the advent of the modern marathon in the early days of the Olympics. Since the early(…)
We’ve already discussed training at altitude (here). Hypoxia is the state when the body doesn’t get enough oxygen. Now, this can be from various physiological mechanisms breaking down, such as an V/Q mismatch or it can occur when training at altitude or in a hypobaric chamber or with a hypobaric mask on. Given the idea that altitude(…)
Rapoport 2010 performed an analysis of marathon runners. He notes that tens of thousands of people run them every year and yet, most experience severe metabolic limitations from poor fueling or running at the wrong speed while 1-2% simply cannot finish the race. Interestingly, the risk factors for hitting the wall or ‘bonking’ as it(…)
In all human endeavors repeatability and a sense of control are generally sought after. Even in a game as chaotic as Aussie Rules Footballs; strategies, techniques, fitness and numerous other elements are all developed to maximize control and win. Running performance has been traditionally based on either a VO2max test, or previous running. This is(…)
Quite often, we don’t consider our diaphragm, intercostals and other breathing muscles. Our lungs have been doing their job since we were born and we rarely consider them when training. Certain populations, such as those with COPD require specialized training in breathing and retraining of the musculature around the muscles but generally people in most(…)
Given we all have limited training time, finding ways to get greater performance in shorter workouts is always an attention grabber. While intensity is always the major factor in terms of adaptation, as has been demonstrated time and again, time on task is a major component in elite fitness. If elite levels are not what(…)
Altitude training has been an element of training for years, particularly in aerobic sports. Two schools of thought have generally emerged concerning returning to sea-level for competition. One claims you would peak 48 hours after returning to a lower altitude while the other states its 18-22 days later. The changes one finds when training at(…)
Knechtle et al 2007 performed an anthropometric analysis of 8 endurance athletes during the Deca Iron Triathlon. The DIT is a competition where athletes perform an Ironman Triathlon 3.86km swim, 180.25km bike and 42.2km run- every day for 10 consecutive days. This type of event goes far beyond standard endurance and will test the physical(…)