Long Distance

HUMANITIES TRUE CALLING

Of all the creatures in the animal kingdom we are certainly not the fastest or the most powerful but there is one athletic area that we excel in and that is our immense capability to consistently hold speed for considerable distances. Thousands of years ago, being able to outrun our prey was essential to our hunting strategy. We may not have been able to reach the top speeds of the Gazelle for example but at some point that Gazelle would grow tired and would be unable to go any farther. This is in large part due to our ability to sweat rather than pant and so overheating is far less of an issue for us.

Challenging ourselves over long distances is something which has been a common theme that transcends eras and cultures. Whether it’s on a track, road or ground, distance running people love to run and prove that they can run faster and for longer than others.

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THE MARATHON

Of all distance events perhaps is none more iconic than the Marathon. A gruelling test of fitness and athleticism, this 26 mile (42km) race attracts massive participation across the world year on year. Even non-elite performers love to challenge themselves to complete this distance with an immensely overriding sense of achievement coming once finished. In 2019 as many know a massive barrier was finally broken which many assumed to be impossible, the Two-Hour barrier. Eliud Kipchoge managed to run 1:59:40, managing to cross the tape with 20 seconds left to spare in Vienna. To put into perspective how crazy that is he managed to hold a 67.68s 400m lap pace for 105.5 laps! Anyone who has run a 400m knows how impressive that is.

Long distance on track

On the track the primary distances contested are the 5,000m and the 10,000m. Typically athletes share a similar relationship with these events as sprinters with the 100m and 200m, they go hand in hand. A more tactical race where lap times are more readily available but also where getting boxed in and being left behind the pack can play a more pivotal role. When should you kick, when should you sit back? These are all paradigms that must be considered on the track as an additional challenge to overcome.

PARKRUN

Perhaps the most popular distance running event in recent years has become the parkrun. A 5K race with mass participation globally from the elite to those just embarking on their fitness journeys. The beauty of the parkrun and distance running is that one can enter and simply challenge themselves not be concerned with their placing or position relative to the others. Appreciation of self-progression and improvement of health and fitness is what appeals most to those who participate.

CONTENT FOR DISTANCE RUNNERS

Event TechnicalBeginner

Long Distance Transitioning from Winter to Summer

23 Sep 2022Damian Nevins

Track specialists approaching the summer season need to consider certain factors before scheduling training in preparation for races. Winter training lasts all year round The energy demands of distance events in track and field like winter road or cross-country recess…

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