Some Work, All Play 305. The Theory of Downhills for Strength and Speed, AM v. PM Training Study, Bicarb Poisoning on Mt. Everest, and Moon Shots!
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Apr 7, 2026 They explore a theory that downhill running—separating turnover-focused and eccentric strength downhills—can boost strength, speed, and fatigue resistance. A mouse study on morning versus evening training sparks debate about translation to humans. Wild news about baking powder poisoning on Mt. Everest and practical tips for programming downhill work and cleaning water bottles round out the conversation.
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Morning Mice Improved More Than Afternoon Mice
- A mouse study compared morning vs afternoon endurance training and found morning-trained female mice improved performance far more despite lower voluntary workload.
- The morning mice showed greater mitochondrial quality markers and myosin isoform shifts, hinting time-of-day effects on adaptation.
Training Consistency May Matter More Than Hour
- Regularity and routine (e.g., consistent training times) may matter more than the exact hour you train, mirroring sleep research showing timing consistency benefits health.
- Individual differences likely determine whether AM or PM training is optimal.
Nervous System Role In Downhill Adaptation
- Some research suggests delayed soreness after downhill running may stem partly from peripheral nerve injury (compression axonopathy) affecting muscle spindle endings, not just muscle fiber damage.
- This implies downhill-induced nervous system changes could drive improved central and peripheral fatigue resistance.