The Rich Roll Podcast Matthew Futterman On The Secrets of Speed & Endurance
Jul 22, 2019
Matthew Futterman, New York Times Deputy Sports Editor and author, shares fascinating insights into the evolution of American distance running. He discusses the revolutionary coaching methods of Bob Larsen, who transformed a group of underdogs into champions. Futterman highlights the importance of mentorship and community in the running culture while exploring the balance between speed and endurance. He also addresses the challenges faced by women in sports and the impact of temperature management on performance, offering a compelling look at the pursuit of athletic excellence.
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Larsen's Innovation
- Bob Larsen questioned conventional training methods, like slow long runs and short intervals.
- He developed tempo runs, focusing on the 'threshold' or 'edge' - the point before exhaustion - and gradually increasing duration.
Liberation from the Track
- Larsen's unconventional approach included taking runners off the track, emphasizing feel over fixed distances and times.
- This fostered trust and freedom, unlike the mentally taxing track training where progress can be harder to perceive.
Toads' Triumph
- The Jamul Toads, a group of misfits coached by Bob Larsen, defied expectations by winning a national championship.
- Despite lacking resources and elite status, they triumphed through hard work and innovative training methods.
