Difference between revisions of "The importance of a training log"

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Tom De Marco stated, "You can't control what you can't measure", and there is some truth to that for running. Being able to look back on your training history can be valuable. It can inspire you with how far you’ve come, explain a problem you are having (done too much or not enough) or simply allow you to compare one time period with another. Another valuable aspect of recording your training is to share it with others. This sharing forms an important part of your social support network for running. It can provide inspiration and [[Motivation]], as well as allow others to give you advice. You must be careful to avoid focusing on just one metric, such as weekly mileage.It is better to look at multiple metrics, such as distance, pace, [[Heart Rate]], etc.While weekly mileage can be useful it is best to look at longer time periods such as 14 or 28 days, as fatigue is cumulative over remarkably long periods. Monthly mileage must be used with caution as the number of running days various and as most people do their [[Long Run|long runs]] at the weekend the number of long runs can vary in a given month as well. Using a training log that can provide graphs makes it much easier to visualize your training. Over the years I have used many different techniques for logging my training and I have created a comparison at [[Training Log Comparison]].
  
Tom De Marco stated, "You can't control what you can't measure", and there is some truth to that for running. Being able to look back on your training history can be valuable. It can inspire you with how far you’ve come, explain a problem you are having (done too much or not enough) or simply allow you to compare one time period with another. Another valuable aspect of recording your training is to share it with others. This sharing forms an important part of your social support network for running. It can provide inspiration and motivation, as well as allow others to give you advice.
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[[File:Daily Mile Training.jpg|none|thumb|500px|An example of [[Dailymile]] training report.]]
 
 
I have attempted to catalog a number of the options for training logs. Below are some of the one's I've looked at, along with some that I need other user's input on.
 
 
 
== Recommended ==
 
 
 
* [[Dailymile]] - This is a great web site and is my top pick. You can use this site as your only training log, or combine it with something with more sophisticated analytics. I use this is the web site in conjunction with [[Polar ProTrainer]]
 
 
 
* [[RunningAHEAD]] - A nice site with lots of reporting options and support for Garmin GPS. It has a Facebook application and built in forums.
 
 
 
== Good Logging, Poor Social ==
 
If you use these options, I would recommend double entering your workouts with Dailymile.com
 
 
 
* [[Polar ProTrainer]] - The best software for Polar users, and some of the best reporting and analytics I have found.
 
 
 
== Looks Good ==
 
 
 
* [[Garmin Connect]] - Easy to use and reasonable functionality, but there are probably better options out there.
 
* [[Athleticore]] - A very minimalist site, focused on running groups, either eductional or other organizations.
 
* [[SportTracks]] - Focused on GPS devices, with good analytics but limited social networking. Interface a little confusing, but lots of plugins to add functionality. Seems immature, with potential.
 
 
 
== Two Thumbs Down ==
 
Things I've used and disliked.
 
 
 
* [[Mapmyrun]] - a very clutered site with lots of adverts (premium membership available)
 
* [[Garmin Training Center]] - Very crappy desktop software for Garmin GPS
 
* [[PolarPersonalTrainer]] - No social networking support, which is unforgivable
 
 
 
== Alternatives ==
 
 
 
* [[Excel]] - Create your own training log and reports.
 
* [[Pen and Paper]] - If you prefer the idea of pen and paper, this may work for you.
 
* [[Athlinks]] - Great site for finding your race results, but not really a training log
 
 
 
== Need More Information ==
 
If you are a user of any of these, please let me know and I will add in the extra details.
 
 
 
* [[TrainingPeaks]] - Popular site with triathletes and supports logging of nutrition as well as training.
 
* [[WKO Plus]] - Desktop software from TrainingPeaks.com
 
* [[Nike Plus]] - I've not used this, but seems very popular
 

Latest revision as of 06:04, 16 April 2013

Tom De Marco stated, "You can't control what you can't measure", and there is some truth to that for running. Being able to look back on your training history can be valuable. It can inspire you with how far you’ve come, explain a problem you are having (done too much or not enough) or simply allow you to compare one time period with another. Another valuable aspect of recording your training is to share it with others. This sharing forms an important part of your social support network for running. It can provide inspiration and Motivation, as well as allow others to give you advice. You must be careful to avoid focusing on just one metric, such as weekly mileage.It is better to look at multiple metrics, such as distance, pace, Heart Rate, etc.While weekly mileage can be useful it is best to look at longer time periods such as 14 or 28 days, as fatigue is cumulative over remarkably long periods. Monthly mileage must be used with caution as the number of running days various and as most people do their long runs at the weekend the number of long runs can vary in a given month as well. Using a training log that can provide graphs makes it much easier to visualize your training. Over the years I have used many different techniques for logging my training and I have created a comparison at Training Log Comparison.

An example of Dailymile training report.