Mental Fatigue Drill

Purpose

Setup

• Set up a long distance run for all of long distance runners, and then a short course for them to run at the end. Intervals of 50m will work well for this drill.

How it Works

1. For this drill, the group of runners will have to run over a long distance – probably around 1,600m.
2. This run should be at a good pace in order to build fatigue in the runner.
3. Once the long distance run is done, then the runners can rest for 3 minutes.
4. After three minutes, the runners must run interval sprints.
5. They should run a 50m interval at half speed, then walk 50m. Then run another 50m at half speed, then walk 50m. The run one more 50m interval at half speed and walk 50m.
6. After resting 3 to 5 minutes, they repeat the sequence above at ¾ speed.
7. Then after resting 3-5 minutes, they repeat the sequence at full speed.

Coaching Tips

• It’s easy to break form when tired, make sure runners continue to use even, rhythmic strides when running.
• They should also keep their heads up. They shouldn’t drop their heads and stare at the ground. They should be looking straight ahead with level heads and good posture.