Are speed workouts harmful?

Browse by category

anne28's picture

anne28

Question:

Are speed workouts harmful?

I've heard that if a runner is going to get injured during a run, oftentimes it's during a speed workout. I know they are great as part of a complete training plan but are they too risky? I'm starting a new training plan that incorporates one intense speed run/week. Any opinion on this?

streete_samu's picture

streete_samu

Anne-

I am by no means an expert in this area, however in my 11 years of running and training hard for races, I have found that most injuries occur when the runner pushes his or herself too hard too quickly. This is over exertion occurs a lot during speed workouts. However injuries are not limited to speed workouts. I have found that once you establish a good base to work from you should not have to worry too much about injuries. Whenever starting a new training plan it is important to establish a good base first. Hope This helps.

zhoenyx's picture

zhoenyx

If you are just starting out speed training, I think it is best to put in only one to two sessions per week and it should be done after a well rest day (or an easy day), then it would be fine. Listen to your body =)