Bob's training principles and guidelines are based on the theory of training and coaching of Bill Bowerman, the latest in exercise physiology research and applied theory through USATF coaching seminars; discussions with Therapeutic Associates. Inc. Physical Therapist, Dave McHenry, D.PT., Terry Favero, Ph.D., U of Portland, the staff research and professional study group; Richard Brown, Ph.D., Human Physiology, Eugene, Oregon; and ongoing discussions with long term coaching relationships at the High School, College, and post collegiate levels.
The various training methods I use are a direct result of my experience as a competitive distance runner at the University of Oregon from 1964 to 1967. My mentor and coach, Bill Bowerman taught me many things but primarily that rest and recovery are critical for short and long term development. I was an integral part of the original Jogging programs Bill started for the Eugene community in 1966 as a result of his experience in New Zealand 1964.
I learned as a freshman that if you train smart by listening to how your body is responding to the training challenges, be positive in your outlook, and stay healthy through specific conditioning activities, staying flexible, you will improve your chances of staying injury free. The most important element for improvement is consistency. By taking your recovery days you allow your body to regenerate and get stronger and enhance your ability to maintain consistency. It is not the challenging training that makes you fit, it is the recovery time that allows the body's chemistry to regenerate fully. In addition, you will need a minimum of 8 hours of sleep, adequate fluids though out the day and the necessary calories to replenish the energy demands of training.
You can define success with faster times or completion of a long distance race but without the joy of the day to day process or "the journey" you may not be able to sustain the energy necessary to maintain the habit of this wonderful form of fitness activity. Running for fitness or competition should be a pleasurable experience.
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