A comprehensive guide to understanding and utilising heart rate variability in training
In the ever-evolving landscape of sports science, one metric that has gained significant attention among athletes and coaches alike is Heart Rate Variability (HRV).
Discover whether this is just “another fad” or whether there is scientific evidence for the use of HRV.
HARNESSING THE POWER OF MENTAL REHEARSAL
The most powerful tool an athlete has is their mind. In this article I discuss the power of mental rehearsal, how to maximise your mental rehearsal and give you the reasons behind why it is so effective.
UNLOCKING YOUR FULL POTENTIAL: THE LACTATE SHUTTLE
Dive into the science behind peak athletic performance as we unravel the mysteries of the lactate shuttle—a key player in the world of running and intense exercise. Contrary to common misconceptions, lactate isn't the enemy but rather a strategic energy source that fuels your muscles
STRENGTHENING the immune system in RUNNERS
Endurance runners often face the challenge of maintaining a healthy immune system while engaging in heavy training. This article explores the relationship between intense training and immune function, discusses the role of various vitamins and minerals in immune health, and provides evidence-based strategies to bolster the immune system. By incorporating proper nutrition, adequate rest, and a few essential supplements, runners can minimise the risk of illness and optimise their performance.
THE IMPACTS OF ALTITUDE ON TRAINING AND RACING
Altitude training has been a subject of great interest in the realm of endurance sports for decades. Runners, in particular, have sought to harness the potential benefits of training at high altitudes to improve their performance at sea level. This article dives into the effects of altitude on running training and race performance, drawing upon the most recent research in the field. I explore the physiological mechanisms, training methodologies, and performance outcomes associated with altitude training, providing insights into its practical applications for athletes.
THE POWER OF PLYOMETRIC TRAINING FOR DISTANCE RUNNERS
Understand the benefits of plyometric training for distance runners and unlock the power (quite literally) it provides!
*includes sample session
Image credit: Myfitnesspal
DOES HEEL STRIKING MAKE YOU SLOWER?
Nearly three quaters of all runners heel strike. Heel striking has got a bad reputation for causing injuries however this can not statistically be proven by science. But whether or not it makes you slower can. In this article I take a look at the research and draw conclusions based upon this.
WHAT IT TAKES TO WIN A WORLD TITLE
In August this year we saw the best athletes in the world battle it out for world supremacy. In this article, I break down the final 200m of each race and answer the question, What does it take to win a world title?
The Dance of Balance: Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous Systems
We can boil running down to two simple states, stress and recovery. There is a fine balance between the two. In this article we delve into these two states on a molecular level to better understand how they impact performance
ACTIVE RECOVERY FOR RUNNERS:
Active recovery has become a buzzword in recent times within the running community. However is it time we started taking it more serious? Can it play an important role in your weekly schedule? Read to find out my opinions on this new “craze”.
OVERCOMING BARRIERS: EMBRACING YOUR RUNNING JOURNEY
There are many barriers we all face when starting our running journeys. Here I acknowledge the most common, motivation, time and body image and provide practical solutions to overcome these barriers.
The Essential Guide to a Proper Warm-up for Runners
Conducting a proper warm-up is crucial for running performance and decreasing the likelihood of injuries. In this article, I provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to perform a warm-up and the benefits of doing a warm-up before you begin running.
Fuelling Strategies for Peak Performance: Pre-Run Nutrition for Runners
It is imperative that you fuel before any run that you do. In this article, I will explain why this is and provide you with some handy do’s and don’t when it comes to pre-run fuelling!
THE HARMFUL EFFECTS OF OVERTRAINING IN RUNNING: UNDERSTANDING, RECOGNISING AND PREVENTING BURNOUT
Overtraining is a common occurrence within the running community. It is so easy to over do it, without you even noticing. That is why I have put this blog together to help you understand, recognise and prevent burnout as a runner!
THE PROS AND CONS OF USING HEART RATE FOR YOUR RUNNING WORKOUTS
The use of heart rate training within the long distance running community has grown exponentially. I take a deeper look at the pros and cons of using heart rate data and provide my own two cents on the matter.
The Power of Antioxidants for Runners: Boosting Performance and Recovery
Antioxidants play a crucial role in combating the harmful effects of free radicals, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall health. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of antioxidants for runners
ENHANCING RECOVERY THROUGH SLEEP
As a running coach, I understand the critical role that sleep plays in optimising athletic performance and recovery. Quality sleep is essential for athletes to enhance their physical and mental capabilities, improve overall well-being, and achieve their running goals. Here are some expert tips to help you maximise your performance through quality sleep:
Super Shoes: Unveiling the Impact on Running Performance and Biomechanics
In a matter of years super shoes have become the new norm, to the point of where you’re the odd one out if you don’t have a pair! But are you really missing out? Are they worth the money and should you wear them during training?
All of these questions are answered inside this article!
HOW NITRATE SUPPLEMENTATION IMPROVES YOUR RUNNING PERFORMANCE
Beetroot juice has been a topic of discussion in the endurance world for a couple of years now but it still feels like there are a lot of questions surrounding its benefits and who should use it. I aim to answer these questions and more in this article.
HOW MANY MILES SHOULD I BE RUNNING?
Determining your weekly mileage is important for runners of all abilities. However it is not as straightforward as you may think. In this article I take a look at what the science says as well as what experience suggests you should do