Exercise Physiologist and Dr. Leo's Coach Matt Woods Discuss Modern Training Theories for Running

Mind Body Marathon

Matt Woods, a knowledgeable coach with extensive experience in running training theory, discusses his coaching journey and influences with host Dr. Leo on the MindBodyMarathon podcast.

1.) Woods' training approach, Total Progressive Aerobic Development (TPAD), involves systematically increasing aerobic intensity and volume in a periodized fashion. He emphasizes the importance of high mileage for elite male athletes and the need for a balanced training regimen to prevent injuries and maximize performance. Woods draws inspiration from renowned coaches like Renato Canova and Jack Daniels, and is constantly evolving his coaching philosophy based on research and personal experience.

2.) Matt discusses his coaching approach of Total Progressive Aerobic Development (TPAD) on the MindBodyMarathon podcast. He emphasizes the importance of building an aerobic foundation through easy aerobic running and gradually increasing intensity. Woods outlines different intensity levels, from aerobic threshold to anaerobic threshold, and the limited use of VO2 max and anaerobic training. He also highlights the significance of the long run in distance running training and the incorporation of ancillary elements like strength training.

3.) Woods and Dr. Leo discuss lactate testing and perceived exertion in training, emphasizing the importance of understanding internal chemistry and adjusting training based on individual responses. They also touch on the potential risks of overtraining and the need for athletes to listen to their bodies and adjust their training accordingly. Ultimately, the key to success in training and racing is consistency, patience, and understanding one's own strengths and weaknesses. Trusting a coach, properly managing recovery, and being able to perform at peak times are crucial for long-term progress and optimal performance. It is important for athletes to understand the importance of balancing hard work with rest and recovery to achieve their goals.

4.) Matt discusses the importance of identifying and improving weaknesses in racing, particularly in the middle portion of races, through threshold training. They also touch on the current state of American distance running, noting the depth of talent but expressing concern about the lack of success in longer races like the marathon. The conversation delves into the significance of physiological testing, such as max VO2, lactate threshold, and heart rate, and how these data points can inform training and performance. The importance of repeated testing and long-term planning based on these results is emphasized, highlighting the need for athletes to commit to their training and follow a structured plan for improvement.

5.) Matt reflects on their early interest in exercise physiology and the impact of coaches like Jack Daniels on their training philosophy. They discuss the lack of implementation of double threshold sessions in high school and collegiate running programs and the negative impact of athletes being overly focused on internet-driven comparisons. The importance of motivation, discipline, and long-term commitment in athletes is highlighted, along with the need for increased mileage in high school runners. The conversation shifts to the evolution of coaching practices, noting improvements in knowledge and certification requirements but also expressing concerns about a lack of inspiration and emotional connection in coaching. Personal anecdotes are shared about the speaker's journey to the Olympic trials and the impact of a coach's challenge in reigniting their running career after a setback.

6.) Dr. Leo reflects on their journey to the Olympic trials in 2012, where they were inspired to push themselves to the next level despite challenges. They discuss the importance of challenging athletes and the need for grit and dedication in American distance running. The conversation touches on the influence of coaches like Joe Vigil and Haile Gebrselassie's story of overcoming family opposition to pursue running. The speaker emphasizes the individualistic nature of training and the importance of enjoying the process and having faith in one's approach. They share a personal anecdote about overcoming mental barriers during a marathon and highlight the power of visualization and belief in achieving success. The discussion concludes with reflections on the psychology of elite runners like Kipchoge and Kiptum and the diversity of temperaments in successful athletes.