Training Log: June 8-14, 2025 (periodization week)
This past week was a periodization week and it was a lot of fun.
Overview of 4 week training cycles (or training blocs). During phases when I build mileage, I generally train in 4 week cycles (or training blocs). I increase mileage by roughly 10% per week for three consecutive weeks , followed by a fourth week — the periodization week — where I cut my mileage by at least half. I use periodization weeks to allow my body to recover from higher mileage and to clear systemic fatigue that accumulates over time. I find they also help me reduce injury risks and prevent over-training.
Summary of this past training cycle. Over the past three weeks, I ran 50 KM, 70 KM, and 82 KM respectively. My goal for the periodization week was to swim, bike, do kettlebell workouts, and lift weights. I didn’t want to run very much, so I mostly cross-trained. I completed 3 swims, each of which were roughly 1KM. I did one threshold run to maintain my V02 max and add some variety. I also did a couple of bike rides. But otherwise, I took it pretty easy and it was pleasant. I went for lots of long walks. I know it has been a good periodization week when I am excited to train again and return to higher volume weeks.
Next week’s goal and some thoughts on double runs. My goal for next week is to run between 90-100 KM, which means that most days will be double runs: 12KM in the morning and 8KM in the afternoon. I really enjoy the mental challenge of double runs. Like many other things in life, they feel daunting in the abstract, but are very doable in practice. Frequently, the second run of the day is easier than the first. Although it took a while, I look forward to double run days. And when I finish the first run, and I am excited for the next one. I also find that I’m most productive when I have a higher training volume and have to train twice or three times per day. There is no time to waste and I have to keep my time management, nutrition, and focus dialled in. It also means waking up very early and going to sleep very early, which I really like. I also have more time to think deeply and develop new ideas. I get most of my ideas for academic articles or research while I train. More training leads to more ideas.
Have a good week!
All views expressed in this blog are my own and do not constitute any form of medical, nutritional, physiotherapy, or other type of advice.
They do not represent — and are not endorsed by — any academic institution.
