The aim of the present study was to describe a novel training model based on lactate-guided threshold interval training (LGTIT) within a high-volume, low-intensity approach, which characterizes the training pattern in some world-class middle- and long-distance runners and to review the potential physiological mechanisms explaining its effectiveness. This training model consists of performing three to four LGTIT sessions and one VO_2max intensity session weekly. In addition, low intensity running is performed up to an overall volume of 150–180 km/week. During LGTIT sessions, the training pace is dictated by a blood lactate concentration target (i.e., internal rather than external training load), typically ranging from 2 to 4.5 mmol·L⁻¹, measured every one to three repetitions. That intensity may allow for a more rapid recovery through a lower central and peripheral fatigue between high-intensity sessions compared with that of greater intensities and, therefore, a greater weekly volume of these specific workouts. The interval character of LGTIT allows for the achievement of high absolute training speeds and, thus, maximizing the number of motor units recruited, despite a relatively low metabolic intensity (i.e., threshold zone). This model may increase the mitochondrial proliferation through the optimization of both calcium and adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathways.

A limited number of studies have examined the distribution of training at different intensities during longer training periods among elite runners. Runners who want to reach international level in distance running should run ≥110 km/week at the age of 18–19 years. For senior runners, it appears that training volumes around 150–200 km/week are appropriate for 5000 and 10,000 m runners and 120–160 km/week for 1500 m runners. It also appears to be beneficial to combine these weekly training volumes with two to four sessions per week at the velocity at the anaerobic threshold pace, and one to two sessions per week above velocity at the anaerobic threshold pace during the preparation period. For runners who compete over distances from 1500 to 10,000 m, it seems appropriate to reduce the number of sessions carried out at velocity at the anaerobic threshold pace and to increase the number of sessions at specific race pace in the pre-competition period and during the competition period. Top results for the marathon can be achieved by a “low volume/high intensity model” (150–200 km/week), as well as by a “high volume/low intensity model” (180–260 km/week).

The aim of this study was to analyse the performance development and training structure of three Norwegian brothers, HI, FI and JI who are all European 1500 m champions, and to examine to what extent training, environment and family support has been decisive in their development. Their performance development and training from the age of 13 was examined through analysis of the Norwegian Athletic Federation (Norges Friidrettsforbund) all-time best results for boys in 800 m and 1500 m; analysis of training diaries; observation of training sessions; and dialogue with the three runners, their father and coach and their mother. All three were very physically active from a young age, and they have taken part in different sports. In the preparation period leading up to the 2018 and 2019 seasons, these three athletes ran an average of 140–160 km·week^–1, with 23–25% at and above anaerobic threshold pace. Training intensity was monitored and controlled via blood lactate measurements taken during all interval sessions. Throughout childhood and adolescence, the boys were highly motivated and strongly encouraged to take part in sport and training by their close family. All the three were coached by their father. An active childhood, a gradual progression in training volume, strong family support, mental toughness, a high volume of training at and above anaerobic threshold, and mindful monitoring and regulation of training intensity have brought these brothers to a top international level in distance running.

The purpose of the present study was to describe training characteristics of distance junior runners at European top level. The athletes' training diaries for the 2008 season were analysed. The total training volume (km/week) performed over the different training periods was registered on five differentiated intensities. The results showed that during the building-up period for the season the junior runners ran an average of 132.5 ± 25.9 km/week. 78.3 ± 4.7 % of their weekly training distance (km/week) was continuous running with a heart rate (HR) between 62–82 % of maximum. During the track competition season the total weekly running distance was 115 ± 22.9 km/week. The training in the three last months before the European Cross Country Championship was very similar to the training in the building up period. In 2008, three of four tested V̇O₂max, and the average was 79.2 ± 4.8 ml · kg^-1 · min^-1.

The purpose of the present study is to give a description of the exceptional running career of Grete Waitz (GW) and give special attention to the distribution of training volume and training intensity in two of her most successful years as an international long-distance and marathon runner. Training data are based on an analysis of GW's training diaries from her early start as a track and field athlete to her best performance years as a long-distance track runner and marathon runner. The main finding in this study was that GW's total running volume, in her best seasons, varied between 119–132 km · week⁻¹ in the different meso-cycles of the training year. Her weekly training volume is far below the volume reported for the current female World Record holder for the marathon distance at the time of writing. Her training typically consisted of two daily sessions of continuous running (50–60 min) at a relatively high intensity. She did very few long interval training sessions, but she usually did one high-intensity session of shorter intervals/sprint training (strides) per week. In the season 1978–1979 she took part in 50 competitions (ranging from 800m to marathon) of which she won 48. Her best track performance in this season was her Nordic record in the 3000 m, 8:31.75 which would have been the best time in the world in 2011 and 2012.

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the motives for training and competing among participants in a half-marathon race. A descriptive quantitative research design was developed using a questionnaire to examine the half-marathon runners’ interest in running and competition. The total number of participants presented in this study were 862, 331 female and 531 male with a mean age 41.8±10.4 years. The major reasons for the participants to regularly practice running were because of its importance to their physical and psychological health, because it is fun, and for other health reasons, respectively. Comparing the motives for running between males and females showed that males scored higher on health, losing weight and to be able to measure their running abilities with others. Comparing the main reasons among age groups for participating in half-marathon competition, the majority of the 40 years old. The results indicate that the major reasons for regularly practice running are that running as activity is important for maintaining physical and physiological health.