How To Use Speed Workouts to Run Faster

Is running fast something you’re after? Is setting a PR your goal when you line up for a race? Does your training plan include speed work? If so, this post is for you.

When we start a block of training – when we’re just getting in shape or if we’re training for a big race, we start with easy mileage. We build a base so that we can add speed work on top of the base we’ve created. The bigger the base (foundation) you can safely build, the more speed work your body can withstand.
Run faster after implementing speed work into your weekly running routineUse speed work to improve your running economy and efficiency

Think of it this way: a building with a very wide base – the size of a city block – has the potential to be a very, very tall building. On the contrary, a building with a very small base can’t get very high before it topples over.

Training is very much the same. A big base allows you to add layers to your training while only having a very small base can increase the risk of injury.