In this episode of the Purple Patch Podcast, IRONMAN Master coach Matt Dixon presents the Winter Running Project, a tried and true method for improving next year’s running performance regardless of your running level or overall goal.  

The Winter Running Project is a chance for triathletes, fitness enthusiasts, injury-prone athletes, or those frustrated with the results of their running performance to improve their running technique and overall performance without getting depleted or shackling themselves with rigid structure in the postseason.

(18:20) "What we're looking for in a project like this, again, is not burning up at the edge of our capacity, but we're looking for simple wins and a mindset of preparation. And so most athletes tend to thrive on a project like this, if they have a target, a goal, but that goal is built more around accountability and consistency, rather than a quantifiable, race-driven executional goal. And so I tend to not have athletes focus on training for an event here. Instead, you make something really fun and accessible. But the reward of it is by simple implementation of the program."

Matt applies the method he uses to help athletes break through their running performance and breaks down the nuts and bolts of how you might put a winter running project into action by focusing on a simple, consistent, and soul-filling approach to running and training that will leave you primed for the coming season.

(23:20) "A lot of your training week can act as a decompressor as a little bit of emotional relief, a little bit of simple joy of being outside, running, feel good from the endorphins that come with it. And we can shine the light more in this project on that aspect without actually losing the structure, the progression and specificity to actually improve."

With the Winter Running Project, you will not only emerge an evolved runner but also build a platform of health, daily energy, resiliency, and a sense of enjoyment while running.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 - 04:41 - Welcome and Episode Introduction

04:42 - 42:14 - The Meat and Potatoes - Episode 243: The Winter Running Project - A Framework to Improve Running Performance for All Levels

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