Friday, June 7, 2013

Training

Similar to their diet, Kenyans take a very simple approach to training: they run, eat, and sleep.  In the times when they aren't on a run, athletes are just resting and relaxing, so that all of their "energy can be directly channeled into training" (Tanser).  Some athletes can even sleep for up to 16 hours per day (Manthorpe)!
The style of their runs is different too.  While westerners often strictly plan their rest days and speed days, Kenyan athletes usually just sort of go with however they are feeling.  Christopher Kosgei of Kenya simplifies it by saying "rest when the body is tired and worn down, not when your body is strong and can take more training," (Tanser).  This could suggest that Kenyans are more focused and in tune to their bodies and what they can do.
Once again, there isn't a good way to test which technique is best, but I think its interesting to just review and take into consideration the differences.

No comments:

Post a Comment