Looking at some elite training schedules, I have seen many that do some quality every day, particularly in the 800-1500m events. Coe for instance used Five Pace training for hard sessions alternating with "easy" days where he did fartlek/change of pace and steady state runs. Ryun did intervals almost daily back in the 60s, with his hard days as 400m repeats and recovery days including fast 100s and moderate 800s. Also guys like Dixon, John Walker, Salazar and Rodgers back in the 70s and 80s were hammering long, hard runs day in and day out pretty much year-round, and still running fast times.
My question is this: Is there any way that sub-elites, midpack college guys, or even serious recreational local road racers could do this without burning out? Anybody had any luck with it?
I am thinking of experimenting with hard (but not so hard I can't walk) intervals three days a week, and adding quality to my recovery days. I am also looking to focus on the 800 & 1500.
Hypothetical Schedule
M:am Easy Run pm Cruise Intervals (800s)
T: 100m Sprint Reps on track or 50s on hill; Explosive Plyometric Session
W: am Easy Run pm 100m Strides very fast
Th: 200m or 400m repeats or long sprint reps; Leg Machines (curls, extensions, abductors, adductors, etc.)
F: am Easy pm 100m Strides very fast
Sa: 10 minute VERY HARD tempo with long cd; Low rep, Heavy squats or leg press
Su: am Easy Run pm Steady State Effort Run