Long Runs for Endurance Runners

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In this episode, Matthew Boyd discusses the significance of long runs in endurance training, emphasizing their role in glycogen depletion, muscle adaptation, and effective execution strategies. He explains the physiological changes that occur during long runs, the importance of fueling, and the differences between heart rate and pace as metrics for training. The conversation provides insights into how to optimize long runs for better performance and injury prevention.

Takeaways

• A long run is defined as any run longer than 90 minutes.
• Glycogen depletion is crucial for endurance training adaptation.
• Long runs stimulate muscle damage, leading to increased endurance capacity.
• Tissue resilience improves with long runs, helping prevent injuries.
• Heart rate is a better metric than pace for long runs.
• Aim for the middle of your heart rate and pace zones.
• Long runs should be executed in zone two for optimal benefits.
• Fueling during long runs is essential for performance.
• The risk of injury increases after three and a half hours of running.
• Understanding the balance between training stimulus and recovery is key.