Running, biking and swimming easy has benefits that all endurance athletes can benefit from.
- Metabolic Efficiency – Running at low heart rates or perceived effort when combined with no external nutritional supplements encourages the body to seek fat as an energy source vs. stored carbohydrate (glycogen). Developing this capability allows you to run further without needing to fuel. Fueling to replenish carbohydrate (glycogen) consumed during exercise is the principal limiter in endurance events.
- Strengthen the body – Running at low heart rates or perceived effort allows an athlete to add duration with relatively low training stress. The focus of exercise at these low levels of exercise intensity is muscular development, and strengthening of musculotendinous connections.
Upon this foundation (base), you will be able to add more race specific intensities in the months to come.