Why do distance running training programs tell you to do long runs so slowly?

Asked by: Dustin Alvarez

Does long distance running make you slow?

Distance can make you slower if all you are doing is distance. If you incorporate some speed sessions into your distance training your speed should not drop.

Is it better to run a short distance quickly it a long distance slowly?

As mentioned above, running faster helps to build muscle and has the added benefit of taking less time to complete your workout. On top of that, when you focus on running at an increased pace, your overall speed will improve, even on the days when you are training for distance instead.

Should long runs be slow or fast?

Your optimal long run pace is between 55 and 75 percent of your 5k pace, with the average pace being about 65 percent. From research, we also know that running faster than 75% of your 5k pace on your long run doesn’t provide a lot of additional physiological benefit.

Why long runs should be slow?

Running at a slower pace will make your training runs more accessible for other runners to join in for all or part of the run. The slower pace means you are more able to chat whilst you run too.

Why does running get easier after 3 miles?

But as you run, your lungs and heart begin to work harder, and as a result, more oxygen is brought onboard. Over time, your body actually catches up to the increased demands of the faster-paced activity, and things naturally start to get easier.

What is the 80/20 rule in running?

The 80/20 what? Simply put, the 80/20 rule of running training states that 80% of your weekly training time should be done at an easy effort level, with 20% consisting of harder running. The distinction between easy and hard is based on the athlete’s ventilatory ‘threshold’.

Is it OK to run 5K every day?

Running a 5K every day can be a great way to improve your cardiovascular health, strengthen and maintain your muscles and keep yourself sane while you’re stuck at home, as long as you’re not brand-new to running. Plus, when paired with a healthy diet, it may even help you lose weight.

What is a good time for 5K by age?

In 2018 alone, 2.9 million people participated in 5k races. Based on all of that data, we have a pretty good idea of what a good 5k time is.
Average Intermediate 5k Times: Male.