reality check wrote:
More like they stole the data from experts like Jack Daniels and just converted it to a percentage of LTV instead of the benchmark originally used.
I'm not sure why you would make the mistake of assuming every knowledgeable distance running coach who can use some exact number or parameter has "stolen from Jack Daniels."
Note the following:
" Ronaldo DaCosta (2:06:05 marathoner) has reportedly run 15 x 1,000 meters at 3:00 each with 30 secs. rest periods. This is actually about 1 second per mile slower than his marathon pace! This is, however, just a workout (and no mention is made as to whether it was done at altitude). The moral is that relaxation and efficient rhythm are more important than "tying up like a big dog" when the objective of the workout is to train the aerobic component. If a former World Record holder runs his 3 min. repeats that slowly in comparison to his LT pace (which is probably about 4:35 mile pace), then going a little easier than possible can't be all that bad! Actually, DaCosta's 1,000s are run at about 95% of his predicted LTV, which is still within the zone which has an impact on raising his LT, and the high volume at this pace will certainly improve his economy.
Ronaldo DaCosta's published workouts include up to 25 x 400 at a 66.2 average with 15-20 secs. recovery periods. Because of the higher number of reps and shorter rest periods, this should represent 103% of his LTV, and indicates that he could run at a 4:34-4:35 pace for an hour (about a half marathon). This is equivalent to "only" 2:07:30 for the marathon, but is consistent with DaCosta performing better as the distance increases. DaCosta also appears to work out a little below his utmost capabilities, possibly to work more on economy or possibly because of the cumulative loading effect of his two long runs per week. He also reputedly performs drills regularly and would presumably want to remain fresh enough to make them productive. In any event, there's a lesson in this inasmuch as workouts which are meant to train the aerobic system should not be run as hard as possible! "
Now, da Costa is a world class marathoner (or was, in any case). His times, and, to some degree, his training is available to the public eye.
The point being made is not that to succeed in distance running, it is necessary to train at 98.67256949% of LT velocity. The point being made is that da Costa is doing AEROBIC workouts. He is training well below his maximum capabilities, but he is TRAINING. Were he to train at MAXIMUM, it might become STRAINING and the benefits compromised. Imagine how strong a runner can get using that kind of mileage, and harder sessions at very relaxed but strong aerobic paces. This is the idea, not what you imply.