Running Rogue Episode #391: Long-Term Planning for Max Success
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Feb 20, 2026 James Dodds, a running coach who specializes in long-term training and periodization, breaks down planning in 12–18 month windows. He explains macrocycles, how to sequence speed and endurance blocks, and why choosing one true priority matters. Short checkpoints and purposeful tune-up races are covered along with practical rules for mileage and progression.
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Episode Framing On Long Term Planning
- Chris McClung and James Dodds open the episode discussing long-term planning and macrocycles for running success.
- They frame the episode as a push to think beyond the next race and plan 12–18 month windows to maximize potential.
Plan 12 To 18 Month Macrocycles
- Think in 12 to 18 month windows made of two to three macrocycles, each roughly five to six months long.
- Define each macro by race distance, specific race goal, training objectives (e.g., volume, intensity, strides) and approximate peak mileage.
Interim Targets Can Compete With Big Goals
- Short-term milestones (like a BQ) can compete with bigger goals (like sub-3 marathon) and distract you from the optimal path.
- Delaying an interim target may accelerate reaching the ultimate goal by avoiding counterproductive trade-offs.