Dr. Phil Skiba on Breaking2, How to Build Critical Power, and the Secret to a Fast Kick

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Jul 24, 2025

Phil Skiba, a physician and performance consultant for the Breaking 2 project, shares his expertise in running physiology and training strategies. He discusses how to improve 'critical power' and the importance of the 'W Prime' model for fatigue management. Skiba also highlights innovations in smart running shoes from Avelo and their potential to enhance performance. He dives into the dynamics of pacing and strategies for a powerful race finish, offering actionable insights for runners aiming to elevate their performance.

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ANECDOTE

Phil's Breaking2 Journey

Dr. Phil Skiba initially hesitated to join Breaking2, fearing he'd slow Eliud Kipchoge down.
Traveling to Africa for training amidst unique living conditions was a life-changing experience for him.

INSIGHT

Understanding Critical Power

Critical power is the threshold pace you can sustain for about 30 minutes before fatigue sets in.
It marks the boundary between stable and unsustainable physiological conditions during running.

ADVICE

How to Calculate Critical Speed

Determine your critical speed by performing hard runs at different distances like a mile, 5K, and 10K.
Plot your times to calculate your threshold pace and battery size for training guidance.

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Dr. Philip Skiba is a physician, performance consultant for the Breaking 2 project, coach to dozens of world class athletes, and author of Scientific Training for Endurance Athletes.

Phil is a world-class expert on running physiology and how to race faster. His groundbreaking research into Critical Power, Critical Speed, and the "W Prime" model of fatigue help the best runners in the world plan their training. And the best coaches seek him out for guidance.

In this conversation, we discuss:

How to determine and improve your "critical speed"
His work with Avelo (get your pair of smart running shoes!)
The under-discussed "battery" of speed that helsp you kick fast at the end of a race
Phil's contribution to Breaking 2 and Eliud Kipchoge's sub-2 marathon attempt

Please follow Phil on X and be sure to thank him for this conversation!

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Thank you to 2Before!

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Thank you to 2Before for supporting Strength Running!