Are there any innovative factors and training methods(aparts from banned drugs)within the last twenty-thirty years that makes more and more people be able to run sub-4 milers and women to run sub-2:20 marathons? Is it just altitude training, nike shoes, high carb diet, low carb diet, etc....? What other factors can you name? Or is there really no difference in general overall performance and times with runners in the 60s and 70s.
It was a bit more than thirty years ago that all weather tracks came into use. There's been a continual improvement in running surfaces over that time which has contributed significantly to the faster times people run now.
Pacemaking was illegal thirty years ago. It happened, but it had to be done somewhat surreptitiously. It's become an accepted practice to the point where it's possible to make a nice living as a rabbit and to where it's possible to organize the pacemaking much better. Even the marathon has benefited from this change. When a guy like Derek Clayton set a marathon record (or whatever) he was on his own.
Actually in the U.S. the number of people who have broke 4 minutes for the mile has decreased. I'm unsure of the number in the world, but i also know that the number in England has also decreased. In light of this i would think the question should be, what has happened in the last 20 to 30 that has decreased the number of 4 minute milers. Personnally, i would have to say Americanization. Everyone is looking for the easiest way to enjoy life. Computers, T.V.'s, ninetindo, etc. The easiest way to enjoy life is to have everything at the palm of your hand.
Actually in the U.S. the number of people who have broke 4 minutes for the mile has decreased. I'm unsure of the number in the world, but i also know that the number in England has also decreased. In light of this i would think the question should be, what has happened in the last 20 to 30 that has decreased the number of 4 minute milers. Personnally, i would have to say Americanization. Everyone is looking for the easiest way to enjoy life. Computers, T.V.'s, ninetindo, etc. The easiest way to enjoy life is to have everything at the palm of your hand.
I would assume the mile is run a lot less now.
GPS watches, sharing of training knowledge online (including this message board). And in the last 5 to 10 years, the ABP and better testing in Kenya and North Africa leading to non-African runners believing they have a chance.