It seems to me that elite runners don't really peak, or even have 'seasons' for that matter anymore. They seem to just prepare for this big race, or for that big race and then carry on and run at their top level all over again. Evidence of this can be seen with Kara Goucher, Dathan Ritzenhein, and especially Galen Rupp whom have all raced a lot this year in different events and continued to have top level performances. In Ritz's interview he stated that Al Sal wanted him (Dathan) to be two weeks away from running a really good marathon or 5000m race at any moment in his training.
If what I'm saying is true is there any reason for it.
Like for example:
Does the elimination of seasonal training give the athletes more time to develop at the top level of performance?
Is it a myth that after 4-6 months the body needs extended rest or to dramatically change the training in order to prevent burnout?
Or perhaps, seasons do not exist in distance running anymore, since there are always major races being run.
Thoughts