Training Principles
The foundation of all our training programs
Think about an event you’d like to train for. Say it’s a half marathon. First, you need to be able to run – comfortably and efficiently.
That’s Technique.
Then you need to be able to run the distance –21.1km, or 13.1 miles in this case.
That’s Endurance.
Once you’re feeling good, you’re going to want to go a little faster. You need to be able to run with a long stride length (That’s Strength) at a high stride rate…which is Speed.
And finally, you want to be able to put it all together, in the terrain and environment for race day.
That’s Execution.
So in essence, training is about taking all the requirements for optimal race day performance, training the individual components (Technique, Endurance, Strength, Speed, Conditions) and putting them back together to create a whole new level of running ability.
Great in theory, but how does it work in practice?
The Performance Pyramid forms the basis of our PODIUM training programs. You can see the 5 stages you will progress through. You don’t want to build up too quickly or you will plateau, and there will be little improvement from that point onwards. At that point, you’re not training, you’re maintaining. PODIUM programs ensure you peak at the right time, not stagnating or overtraining.
But there’s an important component that’s missing…
See, if you train, your body gets tired and you actually get worse. Your performance drops, compared to when you started.
But if you train and recover adequately, you get fitter.
So, Training + Recovery = Performance.
And that’s where periodization comes in. At PODIUM we place a huge importance on recovery! Our programs are designed with build and recover weeks to give your body an opportunity to absorb the training, and no program is longer than 14 weeks. Each training program should be followed with a 2-4 week off season to help avoid over-training and cumulative fatigue.
This is called smart training. Train with PODIUM and ensure you maximize the time and effort you put in. Understanding the philosophy behind our training programs and why they are structured the way they are, is critical to your success.
