Run S.M.A.R.T.
Menu
Login
  • Custom Training Plans
  • Private Coaching
  • Dr. Jack Daniels
  • Running Calculator
  • Coaching Staff
  • News & Updates
  • Contact Us

A Runner’s Best Friend: Not Your Dog But Your Training Log

December 22, 2014 By Run S.M.A.R.T. In Training tips /  

photo 2

By Malindi Elmore

I think that one of the most motivating pieces of equipment a runner can own is a training log. I have been keeping some version of a logbook for at least 20 years and they are all neatly stacked on my bookcase in my office. Sometimes when I need a trip down memory lane I pull them out to reminisce. Thousands of workouts, races, runs, weight sessions and pieces of my heart are stored in the pages of my training logs; often with insightful comments which allow me to re-live the moments long after my memory has faded. If it were not for the editorials alongside my training logbook how would I remember how brutally gut-wrenching and rewarding some of my training sessions and races truly were?

Aside from helping to re-live great workouts and races in excruciating detail, a training log serves a number of purposes for me, and as such is something that I recommend every runner include as part of their “training”.

B4YKwtiCQAEVZNq

Coaching feedback:  Your training should not be stagnant and should be periodized throughout the year as well as change year-to-year as you become a more experienced and mature athlete. For athletes starting with a new coach, a training log is an especially great resource to help know where you are coming from and so they can create an appropriate plan. It is also helpful for yourself to analyze your training so you can keep track of your mileage increases, training load changes, and what works best for you for taper and peak weeks.

Hindsight is 20/20:  I have found that injuries often appear about 6 weeks after I have done something “different”. By using my training log I can often identify a reason for the injury – perhaps a significant increase in mileage, a new plyometric program or a change in shoes that offer clues into the cause or remedy.

Confidence Builder:  Before an important race, I will often “read” my logbook as a way to re-affirm how much hard work I have done in preparation for my race.

Motivator:  I find writing in my logbook to be the “kick in the pants” I need some days to get out the door. Unless I have a good reason for not training (illness, injury, extenuating circumstance) I feel guilty for leaving a page blank. Even more so, I actually look forward to adding my session to the day and seeing all the hard work pile up!

There are so many great resources to log your training and they largely depend on your personal preference. I usually keep a digital and hard copy as they both offer advantages and it is nice to have a back up. I also like to keep a private “hard” copy for my personal use and a digital copy to share with others/coaches.

Run SMART coaches use the VDOT online training calendar for its clients that also serves as training log. If you are looking for a fun, inspiring training book, Lauren Fleshman and Rosin McGettigan-Dumas created a beautiful training journal “Believe I am” that packed with information, photos and inspiration. Whatever your preference, I urge you to find something that works and roll with it!

Malindi Elmore is a Run SMART Project private coach. As an athlete she competed in the 2004 Olympic Games in the 1500m. She’s a 6-time National Champion and Stanford record-holder in the 800m and 1500m. To customize her 1500/mile training plan go here. To work with Malindi privately sign up here. 

Tags:
Malindi Elmoretraining log
Science On The Run: Gait Expectations
The Perfect Gift For The Runner In Your Life

Archives

  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • February 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • March 2017
  • February 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • May 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015
  • August 2015
  • July 2015
  • June 2015
  • May 2015
  • April 2015
  • March 2015
  • February 2015
  • January 2015
  • December 2014
  • November 2014
  • October 2014
  • September 2014
  • August 2014
  • July 2014
  • June 2014
  • May 2014
  • April 2014
  • March 2014
  • February 2014
  • January 2014
  • December 2013
  • November 2013
  • October 2013
  • August 2013
  • July 2013
  • June 2013
  • May 2013
  • April 2013
  • March 2013
  • February 2013
  • January 2013
  • December 2012
  • November 2012
  • October 2012
  • September 2012
  • August 2012
  • July 2012
  • June 2012
  • May 2012
  • April 2012
  • March 2012
  • February 2012
  • January 2012
  • December 2011
  • November 2011
  • October 2011
  • September 2011
  • August 2011
  • July 2011
  • June 2011
  • May 2011
  • April 2011
  • March 2011
  • February 2011
  • January 2011
  • December 2010
  • November 2010
  • October 2010
  • September 2010
  • August 2010
  • July 2010
  • June 2010
  • May 2010
  • April 2010
  • March 2010
  • February 2010
  • January 2010
  • December 2009
  • November 2009
  • October 2009
  • September 2009
  • August 2009
  • July 2009
  • June 2009
  • May 2009
  • April 2009
  • March 2009
  • February 2009
  • January 2009
  • November 2008
  • October 2008
  • September 2008
  • May 2008
  • April 2008
  • March 2008
  • February 2008
  • January 2008
  • November 2007

Meta

  • Log in
All rights reserved.