Becoming a Complete Runner

I came across an article in Running Times that talked about runners becoming "complete runners". In the sense of being able to run well and compete in different lengths and distances, under any number of conditions. Instead of focusing on training for a specific event like the marathon by running long runs, or training for the mile on the track by doing speedwork... to think of it in terms of becoming a better runner at any/ and all distances.

For me I have been combining longer runs about once a week with speed work sessions on a local high school track. Trying not to always focus on what the exact benefit of a specific work-out will have on my training for a set race (such as a 5K I did July 11th), but more so on how my overall fitness level as a runner will be improved.

Also tempo runs, sprint work after a 6-7 mile run, the occasional "two- a - days". How I can improve my overall physiology as a runner, and become as the article termed it, more of a "complete runner."

The OBX Marathon lies ahead in a little over three months. By doing the running and training that is necessary to be able to finish the race, I know in the long run I will be well on my way to becoming a better and more effcient runner in all aspects of my running.