As a triathlete, you've likely come across various training philosophies, and one that's been making waves is polarised training, often referred to as the 80:20 method. But is it really the holy grail of triathlon training? In this article, we'll explore the nuances of training intensity distribution and help you understand how to find the right balance for your triathlon journey.
Understanding Polarised Training
Polarised training, at its core, advocates spending 80% of your training time in low-intensity zones (Zone 1) and the remaining 20% in high-intensity zones (Zone 4 and above). The idea is to build a solid aerobic base with low-intensity work and then push your limits during intense sessions. It's an attractive concept, but is it the only way to achieve success in triathlon?
The Counter Argument
Some experts, like Mark Burnley from Loughborough University, believe that polarised training may not be the one-size-fits-all solution it's often portrayed to be. In a recent counter-argument research paper titled Polarised Training is Not Optimal for Endurance Athletes, Burnley and his team challenged the conventional wisdom surrounding polarised training.
They argue that real-world training often follows a pyramidal distribution rather than a pure polarised model. This means that in practice, athletes naturally engage in a broader range of intensities, including moderate-intensity work (Zone 2), which is often overlooked in polarised training discussions.
The Three Training Zones
To understand this debate better, it's crucial to define the three key training zones:
- Zone 1 (Low Intensity): This zone represents low-intensity work, typically below lactate threshold. It's the foundation for building endurance and aerobic capacity.
- Zone 2 (Moderate Intensity): Zone 2 falls between lactate threshold and maximal steady state. It's the sweet spot for many athletes, where you can work at a challenging yet sustainable intensity.
- Zone 3 (High Intensity): This is where high-intensity intervals occur, above maximal steady state. Training in this zone is crucial for pushing your performance limits.
Finding Your Ideal Distribution
For self-coached triathletes, finding the ideal training intensity distribution can be a nuanced process. Here are some key takeaways to help you navigate this complex landscape:
- Embrace Variety: Avoid getting stuck in training monotony. Incorporate a variety of training intensities within your microcycle to target different aspects of your fitness.
- Balance Pyramid and Polarisation: Recognise that both pyramidal and polarised training can be effective. The key is to strike the right balance based on your goals, available time, and individual response to training.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to recovery and nutrition. Overtraining can lead to burnout, so avoid the misconception that more training is always better.
- Understand Your Goals: Tailor your training distribution to align with your specific triathlon goals and competition timeline. Tapering and periodisation are essential aspects of planning your training.
In the ongoing debate between polarised and pyramidal training, it's crucial to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all answer. What works best for you may not work for someone else. The key to success in triathlon training lies in finding the right balance that suits your individual needs, physiology, and goals.
As you continue your triathlon journey, experiment with different training intensity distributions, and pay attention to how your body responds. Ultimately, your training should be a dynamic and evolving process that brings you closer to your triathlon aspirations.