Seems like there is no `one size fits all` when it comes to training principals. I'm a big Fan of `have a purpose for every session`. Decide before hand what you want from your specific session - ie, speed, distance, recovery, time? Your history counts big amounts and this where I feel most programs mis the point a bit. They start from ground zero most of the time for non-runners but dont adapt for cyclist/Swimmers ect. Those guys already has a base to work from - but the conditioning needs to be done - especially for Ultra runners. I also find most programs fall into the `miles for the sake of miles` mentality which I don't agree with. Do you need miles? - absolutely YES Could you do better prep than just empty miles? - absolutely YES Which brings me back to - know what you want from your specific session continue building. Know when you want to be at your best - peak - and dont chase race times in the early part of the year. Easy up in your easy week so that you can go hard in your next block - dont go into power work with heavy legs - its only deconstructive.
