Stop doing LSD

Stop doing LSD. It really doesn't help you. I know, you might be chasing that high that you get from a great LSD session, but it isn't worth it. The toll it takes on your body is too great in the long run.

I am, of course, talking about Long-Slow Duration training.

For years it has been believed, at least by the majority, that long, slow runs are the best way to build up your cardio. I am telling you today, stop listening to this conventional wisdom. As I covered in a previous post HERE, High-Intensity Interval Training is a MUCH more effective way of building up your aerobic capacity.

Here are the problems with LSD:

  1. The intensity isn't high enough to provide an adequate training stimulus. Instead, you just run mile after mile, with minimal results, and a minute improvement (if any) in your cardio.
  2. You suck at running. It isn't your fault, but chances are your running technique is not good. Most people, because of modern lifestyle and footwear, heel strike and overpronate. This means that every step they are doing damage to their body.
  3. It probably doesn't have anything to do with what you're training for. If you are training for a PAT, it does help to do some running, but sprints and high-intensity, shorter runs are going to be much more beneficial. Stop putting your body through thousands of reps (i.e. steps) that don't help you in any way.
  4. The injury rate is astronomical. Between 70% and 80% of runners will get injured this year. That number is staggering and makes running the most dangerous sport. It doesn't have to be this way, but the fact remains that most runners not only have poor technique, but are not prepared to run.

If you must run, are least do it in the right footwear and focus on technique. Some people feel the need to chase that runners high that you get. I don't blame you, but do it the smart way. Check out this book by Brian MacKenzie and T.J. Murphy (accomplished endurance runners in their own right) to learn how to run properly, (or go here for a non-affiliate link), and this book by Dr Kelly Starrett for how to remain injury free (or here for a non-affiliate link).

 

If you choosed to do LSD, do it wisely.

-Mark

B.Kin, Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology CPT

Mark Murdoch