Well, there has been a GREATdeal of discussion lately on the CrossFit Endurance site as well as other websites about what is better for you and if Long Slow Distance training is warranted at all in programming for athletes whom have an aerobic base.
Well let's have a discussion about quality versus quantity. The discussion as we know from recent studies is pointing to High Intensity training in short and explosive bursts having a similar effect on the mitochondria of the cell as well as the overall aerobic effect of the training. We have also seen research from Dr. Tabata suggestng how a four minute workout can give you similar results to time on the road. More and more the intensity of training is becoming the most important factor in how people are performing on their long distance events.
So what is the purpose of today's discussion then? It comes down to this. Is it appropriate to have LSD workouts in a training regimen?
We at Fresno Endurance are seeking to find an answer through research and performance. We are working diligently with CrossFit Endurance to create a new program for the new endurance athlete based on "longer" workouts. What this theory is based on is helping to increase the aerobic base while utilizing intensity to help build the aerobic base. Once we get the endurance workouts posting again, we will be utilizing this style of workout in our programming on a consistent basis.
We are great supporters of CrossFit Endurance and know the Endurance program is always growing and changing. This is why we are performing some research on the methodology right now. There are several clients who are working with this style of programming right now with the Fresno Endurance team and making progress.
So the question still remains, quality of training (through intensity) or quantity of training (through time) The answer MAY be BOTH are important in different ways.
Longer workouts:
Pros-
Mentally prepares athletes for endurance events
builds aerobic base
Creates an environmant of "I can do it"
Burns fat
Improves cardiovascular function
Cons-
Time Consuming
Decreases power, speed and strength
Can cause injury due to over-training or repetitive stress injury
High Intensity Training:
Mentally prepares athletes for endurance events
builds aerobic base
Creates an environmant of "I can do it"
Burns fat
Improves cardiovascular function
Maintains or increases power, speed, strength
Increases efficiency of cellular function
Increases Aerobic capacity
Cons-
May need an aerobic base to perform
STAY TUNED FOR PART 2 tomorrow
