How Much is Too Much
Got a question from someone about long distance
running and how to pass a 2-mile test:
Hey Matt,
I just ordered your book, but had a few questions. I
am currently in Officer Candidate School which focuses
a lot on distance running. A lot of what I have read
about your ideas have eliminated distance running from
your training regiment. i will still have to perform
my 2-mile run for my APFT. What do you suggest to help
me improve on this, since this is an area that I can
not neglect. I am still nursing a leg that I broke
this last year, and running is a real pain. But I
really have no option. Can you help a guy out.
Thanks,
Officer Candidate
Kelly
MJF: Kelly, 2 miles is NOT long distance. Neither is a
mile. For some people it might seem like long-distance,
but it’s not. Running a brisk pace mile or two is something
I am in agreement on. Back in 1990, I ran the Honolulu
Marathon -placing 1,101 out of over 13,000 runners. I’m
glad I ran it – and I have respect for those who engage in
long distance pursuits. I just don’t think it is the best way
to train for a lot of people. For some, it is. They like it and
if it is what makes them happy, I say do it.
My main concern about long-distance running is the amount
of people who end up needing knee and hip replacements
due to all the pounding. Then again, there are a lot of lazy
loafers who end up needing joint replacement too – so go
figure.
Regarding the leg you broke last year and are still nursing.
Maybe nursing it is not such a good idea. Get tough. You
may be surprised what will happen to the pain if you tell
it to relax and go away. You can even mentally picture
this happening – and the results can be surprising.
Make a plan to pass your test – then give it all you’ve
got and I’m betting you do well.
Follow the Hindu squats, Hindu pushups and bridging in
Combat Conditioning and you’ll run circles around the
others – http://mattfurey.com/conditioning_book.html
Matt Furey