I tend to train following Daniels methods at between 50 and 60 mpw, but I've recently been wondering if I really need the long easy runs as prescribed...
My reasoning for questioning this, is if I'm running a standard Daniels threshold workout of 5x1 mile cruise intervals, followed by 4x 200m reps; I will be covering around 11 miles in total when you factor in warm up, cool down, and 1 min recoveries at easy pace. I don't stop and walk mid workout or anything, so that's 11 continuous miles in total at varying paces. The whole workout would take around 80 mins.
Now this total distance could easily be increased to 12 or 13 miles (88 mins or 96 mins) by extending the warm up and cool down, which would seem a sufficient long run for someone running 50-60mpw and focusing on 5k/10k... couldn't I therefore incorporate another reps or intervals day in place of the 'traditional' long run instead?
I'm thinking this might be a better move for me as I've made big gains from speed work in the past; but I don't want to ignorant neglect the long run, just because the benefit gained may be less 'obvious' than the benefits brought by speed work
Is my logic here flawed? What am I missing?