Interval training - Runners' love-hate relationship with pyramid sessions and speed drills

Does anyone really like interval training? Even in normal times, when we could gather for group runs and share the pain of pyramid sessions, I suspect that 99 per cent of those who turn up for the nominated interval sessions would rather be tackling a leisurely long run, or a bout of diarrhoea.

I certainly fit into that category. I've never been a huge fan of the hill sprints, or lamppost-to-lamppost sessions. But, while I'd much rather tackle a threshold run or an out-and-back, I know that intervals are good for me. Like broccoli, carrot juice and Radio 4, I'll endure because I know that I'm getting something from them, but the experience itself can be hard work.

Are online intervals the answer?

During lockdown, however, interval sessions have been even harder than normal, not in terms of intensity, but in actually being bothered to do them. When run in groups, interval training is a shared experience, but even the most confident of runners becomes staggeringly self-conscious when taking on the challenge alone.

Indeed, there's something about repeatedly running up and down a hill by yourself - passing the same confused people eight times in 10 minutes - that is a little awkward. Finding the motivation to get out there and sacrifice a steady mid-week run for an intense stairway interval session is almost impossible.

However, the answer to interval malaise and paranoia is to go virtual. Having discovered Zwift early in my lockdown experience, I have actually enjoyed the workout options it has given me, allowing me to take on a number of different interval sessions from the comfort of my own home. No strange looks, no self-conscious moments and plenty of intensity.

I've also found that the more I do, the more I enjoy it and the more I think it's helping. The sessions on Zwift are varied, but interestingly I have found that - rather than the intensity - it has been the blend of fast and slower-than-I-would-normally-go slow intervals that has helped me the most. I feel that I am recovering faster and, I hope, building a bit more strength in my legs.

Of course, I'm always going to prefer a long trail run, but - while we're still in some form of lockdown at least - I think I've found my interval session answer. 

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