

former reader picking nits
RE: Does anybody here train using Daniels Running Formula
I have Daniels Book but I don't follow the plans any more. Here are my criticisms:

1) The pace charts don't apply to me very well. There is no one VDOT that will capture all my paces, so I used to just use mile race pace for R, 5k race pace for I, then guess at E and T based on feel.

2) Workouts are based on too few paces. As a 1500 guy, I think you need to touch on 800 pace sooner than phase 4 (and even then it is only 4x200 at 800 pace), and there is no mention of developing all-out speed. A miler needs to touch on that once in a while, that's why they hop on the 4x4 team occasionally. Also no work at 3k or 10k race paces. These are productive paces, and are even race-specific for some people. Also no talk of high-end aerobic runs.

3) The full recovery isn't doing it for me with R pace. Sure, maybe early on to develop leg strength, speed, and neuromuscular adaptations. But eventually in order to run a fast middle distance race you need to be working speed endurance.

4) A 20 minute tempo run is too short in my opinion, though that was updated in version 2 (so not really a complaint any more but it used to be when I was using the book.)

