How to Set Up Your Season with CTS Coaches AJW and Cliff Pittman #211
Jan 4, 2024
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Learn how to structure your training season for trail and ultra running, including tips on strength training, race planning, and heat training. Explore the steps to set up for long-distance races like the Western States 100. Discover the significance of race recon and heat training. Hear about the importance of course recon and planning for hydration and nutrition. Enjoy a story, advice, and gratitude. Congratulate coaches Cliff Pittman and AJW on becoming full-time coaches and providing race support for CTS athletes at the Western States 100.
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Quick takeaways
Setting up a season with long periods of time for training is crucial to maximize training potential.
Identifying anchor points such as supporting races, training camps, and heat training interventions is an important step in structuring the season.
Race reconnaissance and heat training are crucial aspects of race preparation, allowing athletes to familiarize themselves with challenging sections of the racecourse and optimize performance.
Deep dives
Importance of Long-term Training
Setting up a season with long periods of time for training is crucial to maximize training potential.
Anchor Points and Planning
Identifying anchor points such as supporting races, training camps, and heat training interventions is an important step in structuring the season.
Mental Preparation and Support
Early consideration of mental framing, crew selection, and supportive teammates helps in building confidence and reducing stress during races.
Importance of Race Recon and Heat Training
Race reconnaissance and heat training are crucial aspects of race preparation. Reconnaissance allows athletes to familiarize themselves with challenging sections of the racecourse, enabling them to make informed decisions and adjust their race strategy accordingly. For example, in the Aravaipa COCA race, the first 40 miles are notoriously brutal, and even experienced runners benefit from recon. Additionally, heat training should be carefully planned, considering the proximity to the race and the potential impact on an athlete's performance. These interventions play a significant role in optimizing race performance and should be given proper attention and time.
Prioritizing the Main Focus and Supportive Races
A main focus race demands adequate attention and a strategic training plan. It is essential for athletes to keep the main goal at the forefront of their training and avoid distractions or conflicting activities. Prioritizing the race requires making intentional choices, such as avoiding high-volume efforts close to the race and focusing on the key elements that directly contribute to success. It is also important to consider the support system, including the crew and their role in providing an ergogenic aid during the race. Open communication with family members and loved ones about the time and commitment required for race preparation can help create a supportive environment for the athlete.
If you are not planning out your season by now you should be! CTS coaches Cliff Pittman and AJW discuss how to set up your season with the right anchor points, how to schedule a B race and how to keep the focus on the things that are the most important.
Episode highlights:
(9:02) Western States classic buildup: Way Too Cool 50k, American River 50, Miwok 100k, Memorial Day training camp
(17:02) Koop’s framework: identifying key goal races, building an ideal long range plan before modifying it to incorporate supporting races, camps, and life circumstances, knowing where to make compromises
(30:00) Recon the crux of the course: challenges with course recon, Western States example and trails blocked by snow, example from the first year of Cocodona, confidence boost