Q about Marathon Training: V02 Max workouts in the beginning phase?

Bump, any insights would be appreciated thanks.

okay go,

Could you give us some more information? How long until your marathon? What is your training and racing history?

I think the reason most marathon programs discourage VO2 max workouts early is because these types of workouts prevent maximal mileage that is often the focus of early phases of marathon training. If you are not planning on a significant average mileage bump, I see no reason why you can't incorporate this type of workout. I prefer to never depart too far from any particular energy system in training. However, for success in the marathon you might be better suited emphasizing aerobic threshold runs rather than VO2 max runs.

It sounds like you really want two seasons; one for 5k-10k and the second for the marathon. Go for it. Was it Peter Coe who said you can't hide from speed? I think the most important thing is enjoying running--so why not enjoy racing well at all distances by training for all of them? YMMV.

Payton wrote:

It sounds like you really want two seasons; one for 5k-10k and the second for the marathon. Go for it. Was it Peter Coe who said you can't hide from speed? I think the most important thing is enjoying running--so why not enjoy racing well at all distances by training for all of them? YMMV.

Yeah that's exactly what I'm trying for. THis is planning for next year, but I'd like to train up to a Marathon, racing 5K-10K early along the way.

okay go,

I have tried this approach and have failed miserably. One of my best friends tried this approach and did very well. I don't think you'll know if it works for you until you try.

In my case, I was just tired when I started to do my MP work. Instead of feeling fresh and ready to workout, I felt like I was at the tail end of a season, just holding on for dear life. It was possibly the only time I felt "overtrained". I was also 32 years old and was coming back from a multi-year break in training. I think a 25 year old would have an easier time then I did and probably wouldn't break down from the V02Max stuff the way that I did. Incidentally, the friend that did it with success did it right after college, so he still had young legs.