Running Economy: The Efficiency Nobody Trains Directly
Two runners with identical VO2 max and lactate threshold often perform differently. This difference is explained by running economy — the...
Energy
The Difference Between Feeling Fit and Being Durable
Training often reaches a phase where runs feel controlled and recovery seems manageable—commonly described as feeling fit. However, benea...
Lactate in Running: Why It’s Not What Slows You Down
Lactate is often blamed for fatigue and slowing in running, but this is a misconception. It is continuously produced and recycled as a vi...
The Energy System of Running
Running requires muscles to produce energy continuously through ATP. Carbohydrates and fat serve as primary fuels, with glycogen supporti...
The Crossover Point: When Running Pace Changes Your Fuel Source
Running pace affects the body’s choice of fuel. At slower speeds, fat provides most energy. Increasing pace shifts reliance toward glycog...
Why Runners Hit the Wall: The Physiology of the Bonk
Distance runners often encounter a sudden drop in energy late in races, commonly called ‘hitting the wall.’ This occurs as glycogen store...
Why Easy Runs Burn Mostly Fat
Easy runs are performed at a pace that prioritizes fat as the primary fuel source. This occurs because fat metabolism meets energy demand...