Fit and Fast: Achieving Robustness in Training

"In this episode of the On Coaching Podcast, Steve Magness and Jon Marcus discuss the concept of 'fit but flat,' exploring the phenomenon where athletes excel in metabolic fitness but fail to perform competitively due to a lack of neuromuscular coordination. Using examples like middle-distance runner Ingram Brion, the hosts delve into how metabolic training alone can lead to race failures."

"They emphasize the need for varied and robust training regimes that incorporate asymmetrical and chaotic activities, as well as strength and coordination exercises to build athletes' resilience and adaptability. Historical and modern training paradigms from coaches like Arthur Lydiard and Renato Canova are analyzed to underline the importance of integrating coordination training consistently throughout an athlete's program."

Athletes can achieve high metabolic fitness yet underperform competitively when neuromuscular coordination is insufficient. Metabolic training alone can leave athletes vulnerable to race failures, as exemplified by middle-distance cases. Training programs should include varied, robust elements such as asymmetrical and chaotic activities, strength work, and coordination drills to build resilience and adaptability. Historical and contemporary coaching paradigms show that consistent integration of coordination training across the program enhances robustness. A balanced approach that pairs metabolic conditioning with neuromuscular development reduces the risk of being fit but lacking race-specific performance capabilities.

Read at Science of Running