Your Annual Training Plan (ATP) should already have recovery times scheduled throughout the season. Most of the athletes I coach are on 3 to 5 week cycle. Depending on the race specifics there is usually a slight increase in volume or intensity from week to week. These cycles always end with a reduction in volume. During these recovery weeks, I exclude strength sessions and long runs and keep the intensity below AeT.

Got Overtraining Indicators? One of the benefits to these easier weeks is that it can significantly reduce the potential to overtrain. Overtraining for extended periods of time can impact your entire season if left untreated. Pay attention to these overtraining indicators:

· Reduced performance/Feeling sluggish

· Weight change

· Elevated MRHR

· Irritability

· Poor concentration

Joe Friel points out the Fitness growth results not from the quantity of exercise, but rather from the capacity of the minf and body for restoration. The athlete who recovers the fastest is able to complete the most high-quality workouts. Quick recovery from fatigue is key. To those who master this concept, who moderate motivation with patience and who balance intensity with intelligence, go the medals.

Mitch

Mitch Gold is a CpC coach and can be reached at Mitch@counterpartcoaching.com