Is high impact interval training (HIIT) the best method of training for long distance running?
Can shorter, harder interval work be more helpful in preparing for long distance races, than time on feet?
We’ve all heard about HIIT, the highly efficient exercise that uses interval structures to alternate between intense periods of explosive moves and short rest times. Without a doubt, the greatest benefit of HIIT is increased stamina, which is vital for long distance running. The interval split between work and rest helps increase your cardiovascular system and lung capacity so adding in one or two HIIT training sessions a week alongside your long-distance runs can help to significantly improve speed and cardiovascular output.
Improving your cardiovascular output strengthens your heart and enables you to carry more oxygen in your blood, meaning you fatigue less easily and can continue running with strength. During these short explosive work periods, you are improving muscle strength, power and explosivity which all help to increase your leg power and build up fast twitch muscle fibres, allowing you to run faster for longer with greater strength in a shorter and condensed time.
HIIT also encourages good overall balance in your body through training all muscle groups and increasing the efficiency and power in your core. You need more than just stamina when it comes to long distance running so working on performance to significantly improve your deep core muscles will have a very important role in keeping your body stable while you run.
HIIT training improves stamina and speed and, combined with strength training, is a crucial part of a long-distance training plan. However, I’d argue that to be successful
