Aug 25, 2024
Training Tips by Runzy Director of Coaching Joe McConkey
Carbon-Fiber Shoes for Speed Work?
Carbon-fiber plated shoes are a must for elite marathoners these days, and likely on-going. Every athlete who toes the line at the Olympic Marathon in Paris will be wearing one. Elites will wear these high performance shoes not only for all races, but also for the majority of their speed workouts. Many amateurs, however, think to 'save' the perk of carbon-plated shoes for race day only. What's the harm with this thinking?
For most, there is a big difference felt when wearing a carbon-fiber shoe for the first time. The extra cushion and stiff response to the ground results in a longer stride, and therefore faster pace, with less effort. Sounds good, right? And for most it is. However, for many it is hard to reach the turn-over, i.e. leg speed and ground reaction time, with the cushioned, high heel-stacked carbon-plated shoes that they can with say racing flats, spikes, or even regular trainers.
The fact is, for some it takes practice to learn how to run with a fast stride rate with carbon-plated shoes. If you do though put the time in, and regularly wear your carbon-plated shoes for a variety of speed workouts, the result is a combination of the 'free' long stride from the shoes, plus your hard-earned efficient and fast turnover. Increased stride length + increased stride rate = peak performance.
