The Unconventional Running Coach

 My Score 10/10 What is covered ? Diet, biomechanics, slow training, training plans  I don't give many books full marks but there is so little I don't like about this book I was annoyed I had forgot about it until now. In fact it is another book I own in both paperback and audiobook and as a result of seeing it am going to give it another listen to. Things I like / use in my own training that are talked about in this book:  Walking before you can run, it is even the title of chapter 3.  Standing more than sitting e.g. standing desks (chapter 2) Barefoot / Minimalist Running (mentioned in a few places)  Maffetone / Low Heart Rate training  Diet - Low carb which would be sufficient for most runners.  Running Drills to improve technique  Recovery is where you improve and should be prioritised.  Health and happiness before performance but also often leads to it.  Strength training The book opens up with how humans evolved and the function o...

After all how often do you hear, "it isn't on Strava so it didn't happen"? Strava is automatically journaling, especially if you add extra notes but what about everything else you do? Journaling can be a powerful tool for athletes seeking to improve their performance. When used strategically, it can enhance self-awareness, boost motivation, and optimize your training routine. Here's a science-based approach to journaling for athletic success: 1. Track Progress and Performance: Log workouts: Record details like exercise type, duration, intensity, and perceived exertion. This allows you to track progress, identify weaknesses, and adjust your training accordingly. Monitor sleep and recovery: Log sleep duration and quality, along with recovery practices like stretching or meditation. This helps you optimize your recovery routine and identify potential factors impacting performance. Performance insights: Reflect on how you felt duri...

 I came across the following article today after seeing the authors new book in a shop. It discusses the importance of sleep and the challenges many people face getting enough of it. The author outlines five science-backed techniques to improve sleep quality: Slow breathing Exposure to morning light Using your bed only for sleep Taking warm baths before bed Listening to your body’s natural sleep-wake cues The article also provides some additional tips, such as avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and making sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. How much of this do you already do? Is there anything else you would add? Surely exercising so you are tired is a good shout as well, so long as it is earlier enough that it doesn't keep you awake. I might try the breathing exercises but I do get light as much as I can as early as I can, mostly use my bed just for sleeping, if I shower in the evening it is warmer than normal, though I might try...