Fartlek Training Techniques

How can fartlek training improve aerobic capacity?

Fartlek training can enhance aerobic capacity by incorporating varying intensities of running, which challenges the cardiovascular system to adapt and improve its efficiency in utilizing oxygen during exercise. By alternating between periods of high and low intensity, the body learns to deliver oxygen more effectively to the muscles, leading to enhanced endurance and overall aerobic performance.

How can fartlek training improve aerobic capacity?

What are some examples of speed variations in fartlek training?

Speed variations in fartlek training can include segments of fast-paced running interspersed with slower recovery periods. For example, a runner may sprint for a certain distance or time, followed by a jog or walk to recover before picking up the pace again. These fluctuations in speed help improve speed endurance, anaerobic threshold, and overall running economy.

LISS (Low-Intensity Steady-State) Cardio

Dr. Saul Isserow awarded a 2019-2020 UBC Killam Teaching Prize

The SCBC team is excited to announce that Dr. Saul Isserow has been awarded a UBC Killam Teaching Prize! This prize is awarded annually to faculty nominated by students, colleagues and alumni in recognition of excellence in teaching. We feel very honoured to be able to work with and learn from Dr. Isserow. Read more [...]

Posted by on 2020-03-23

SportsCardiologyBC – A Year in Review

Dr. Saul Isserow, Head, Sports Cardiology BC SportsCardiologyBC A Year in Review Athletes and physically active individuals are not immune to the risks of cardiac disease. Although, regular habitual exercise has numerous health benefits, vigorous exercise can result in an increased risk of heart attack and sudden cardiac death. In [...]

SportsCardiologyBC – A Year in Review

Posted by on 2020-01-07

The Cardiovascular Impact of Cannabis

By Jonathan RZ Lim Cannabis is the most widely produced and consumed illicit substance in the world, with the number of users approaching 182.5 million globally.1 The upward trend shows no signs of stopping, with Canada legalizing cannabis on October 17th, 2018. Cannabis is known for both its therapeutic and recreational use - many users [...]

Posted by on 2019-08-01

Debunking the Runner’s High

By Lily Yang, Many long-distance runners are driven by their pursuit of the “runner’s high,” which is described to be a feeling of euphoria and invincibility reached after covering lengthy distances. Exercise in general is known to stimulate the release of a cocktail of mood-boosting neurotransmitters, such as endorphins, dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin (1). The [...]

Posted by on 2019-05-15

How does fartlek training differ from traditional interval training?

Fartlek training differs from traditional interval training in that it is more unstructured and flexible. While interval training involves specific work and rest periods, fartlek allows for spontaneous changes in pace and intensity based on how the individual is feeling during the workout. This freedom in training can make it more enjoyable and engaging for athletes.

How does fartlek training differ from traditional interval training?

Can fartlek training be customized for different fitness levels?

Fartlek training can be customized for different fitness levels by adjusting the duration and intensity of the speed intervals. Beginners may start with shorter bursts of speed and longer recovery periods, while more advanced individuals can incorporate longer and faster intervals to further challenge their aerobic and anaerobic systems. Tailoring fartlek sessions to individual fitness levels ensures optimal progression and prevents overtraining.

Cardiovascular Training Methods Used In Personal Training

What are the benefits of incorporating fartlek sessions into a training program?

Incorporating fartlek sessions into a training program offers various benefits, including improved aerobic and anaerobic fitness, enhanced speed and endurance, increased calorie burn, and mental toughness. The dynamic nature of fartlek training keeps workouts exciting and helps break through plateaus by constantly challenging the body in different ways.

What are the benefits of incorporating fartlek sessions into a training program?
How often should fartlek training be included in a weekly workout schedule?

Fartlek training can be included in a weekly workout schedule 1-2 times, depending on the individual's training goals and overall fitness level. Beginners may benefit from one fartlek session per week to gradually build endurance and speed, while more experienced runners can incorporate two sessions to maintain and improve their performance.

Are there specific guidelines for structuring a fartlek training session?

Structuring a fartlek training session involves alternating between different speeds and intensities throughout the run. Athletes can choose landmarks or time intervals to dictate when to change pace, such as sprinting to the next lamppost or running at a faster pace for 2 minutes followed by an easy jog for 1 minute. This spontaneous and adaptable approach to training allows for creativity and variety in workouts, keeping the body and mind engaged.

Are there specific guidelines for structuring a fartlek training session?

Effective plyometric cardio drills for improving endurance include box jumps, burpees, jump squats, tuck jumps, and high knees. These exercises engage fast-twitch muscle fibers, enhance cardiovascular capacity, and boost overall stamina. Incorporating dynamic movements like lateral bounds, skater jumps, and plyometric push-ups can also help increase endurance by challenging the body's energy systems and improving muscular efficiency. Additionally, incorporating interval training with plyometric exercises can further enhance endurance by pushing the cardiovascular system to adapt to varying intensities and recover faster between bouts of high-intensity efforts.

Various forms of cardiovascular exercise, such as running, cycling, swimming, and HIIT workouts, can significantly impact fat loss by increasing calorie expenditure, improving metabolic rate, enhancing cardiovascular health, and promoting overall weight management. These activities engage different muscle groups, intensities, and energy systems, leading to diverse physiological adaptations that contribute to fat burning and weight loss. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has been shown to be particularly effective in boosting metabolism and promoting fat oxidation due to its alternating periods of intense effort and rest. Additionally, endurance activities like long-distance running or cycling can also aid in fat loss by increasing endurance capacity and promoting a higher calorie burn during and after the workout. Ultimately, incorporating a variety of cardio exercises into a well-rounded fitness routine can optimize fat loss results and improve overall health and fitness levels.

Proper sprinting technique on a treadmill for cardiovascular exercise involves maintaining a consistent pace, engaging the core muscles for stability, focusing on proper foot strike alignment, utilizing interval training to maximize intensity, incorporating dynamic warm-up and cool-down routines, adjusting the incline to simulate outdoor conditions, wearing appropriate footwear for cushioning and support, monitoring heart rate to ensure optimal exertion levels, staying hydrated throughout the workout, and gradually increasing speed and duration to prevent overexertion and minimize the risk of injury.

Altitude impacts cardio training efficiency by reducing oxygen availability, leading to increased red blood cell production, improved oxygen utilization, enhanced aerobic capacity, and heightened cardiovascular performance. Training at high altitudes stimulates physiological adaptations such as increased capillarization, improved muscle buffering capacity, enhanced mitochondrial density, and optimized energy production pathways, ultimately enhancing overall endurance and performance in athletes. The hypoxic environment at altitude challenges the cardiovascular system, prompting adaptations that can translate to improved cardiovascular fitness and efficiency at sea level.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a form of exercise that involves alternating between intense bursts of activity and short periods of rest or lower-intensity exercise. In personal training, HIIT is utilized to maximize calorie burn, improve cardiovascular fitness, increase metabolism, enhance endurance, and promote fat loss. Trainers incorporate HIIT into workout routines to challenge clients, boost their fitness levels, and achieve efficient results in a shorter amount of time. HIIT sessions typically involve a series of high-intensity exercises followed by brief recovery periods, creating a challenging yet effective workout regimen.

Rowing ergometers offer numerous advantages for interval training. They provide a full-body workout, engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously. This leads to increased cardiovascular endurance, improved strength, and enhanced overall fitness levels. The adjustable resistance levels on rowing ergometers allow for tailored intensity during interval training sessions, enabling individuals to push their limits and achieve optimal results. Additionally, rowing ergometers offer low-impact exercise, reducing the risk of injury while still delivering a high-intensity workout. The repetitive motion of rowing helps improve coordination, balance, and flexibility, making it a versatile and effective tool for interval training routines.

Monitoring cardiovascular progress can be effectively achieved through methods such as tracking heart rate variability, measuring blood pressure levels, assessing lipid profiles, monitoring exercise capacity, evaluating cardiac output, analyzing ECG readings, observing changes in VO2 max, examining arterial stiffness, checking for signs of atherosclerosis, and conducting stress tests. These techniques provide valuable insights into the overall cardiovascular health and help in gauging the effectiveness of interventions aimed at improving heart function and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Progressive overload in cardiovascular training involves gradually increasing the intensity, duration, or frequency of aerobic exercises to continually challenge the cardiovascular system and promote adaptations such as improved endurance, efficiency, and cardiovascular health. This can be achieved by adjusting variables such as speed, incline, resistance, or distance in activities like running, cycling, swimming, or rowing. By progressively overloading the cardiovascular system, individuals can enhance their aerobic capacity, strengthen the heart and lungs, and optimize overall cardiovascular performance over time.