re: Official Running Log/Marathon Training Thread

The Brazos Bend gators…. No worries it’s cold so they are dormant and just sitting on the trail.

If you want to run a trail race there are soooo many better options than any of these. But most might have a few “hills”.

I asked AI about it, and the answer it gave made sense. Functional strength can definitely impact endurance running, but not replace any of your cardio training. I might still consider adding it, and look for a used one on Facebook.

This is what it said:


Short Answer:

Yes, the Torque Fitness sled can help with endurance running (like half marathons and marathons), but not by directly improving aerobic endurance or pace. Instead, it helps by developing muscular strength, running economy, and injury resilience, which indirectly improve long-distance performance.


Here's how sled work helps endurance runners:

1. Improves Running Economy

Stronger glutes, hamstrings, and calves = more efficient stride.

Sled work trains those muscles in a way that translates to better energy transfer per step, especially when fatigued in the late miles.


2. Strengthens Posterior Chain Without Heavy Lifting

If you’re not lifting heavy weights regularly, sleds are a great way to build functional strength in a runner-specific way—without heavy barbell training.

This improves posture, stability, and form under fatigue.


3. Reduces Injury Risk

Sled work helps bulletproof the knees, hips, and ankles by strengthening supportive muscles and tendons.

Great for preventing IT band issues, runner’s knee, and hamstring strains.


4. Improves Hill Strength and Form

Mimics hill running: forward lean, drive through the foot, arm engagement.

Better climbing ability and more confidence on rolling courses.


5. Adds Variety Without Joint Load

Sled pushes/pulls are low-impact and safe during high-mileage weeks.

You can maintain intensity without additional pounding.

What it won’t do:

Increase your VO2 max, lactate threshold, or aerobic endurance directly.

Replace your long runs, tempo runs, or speed workouts.

Bottom Line:

The Torque sled won’t make you faster in a marathon by itself—but it makes you stronger, more durable, and more efficient, all of which help you maintain form and speed deeper into the race. Think of it as an endurance runner’s secret weapon for strength and resilience.

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The Brazos Bend gators…. No worries it’s cold so they are dormant and just sitting on the trail.

If you want to run a trail race there are soooo many better options than any of these. But most might have a few “hills”.

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I don't mind hills, I plan to do the Grand Canyon Death March next year, and possibly the Pinhoti 100. I was just looking for something to do in the Winter / Early Spring. I might end up just doing the Chief Ladiga as a "keep up your fitness" type run early next year

If you didn’t know the north rim is closed and probably will be for some time. Hopefully back open by next year

1m @ 7:50
1m farlek at 11:47
Got a couple 5ks I’m gonna try to PR, speed work sucks after several months of just logging long slow miles.

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Big fan of the weighted sled. Advise pushing it and pulling it backwards.

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I want one to go up and down my street, like the Torque M1. But damn, they're so expensive, even used.

Ah damn, I’m a size 12.5. Thanks for thinking of me!

Ran last night. It’s hot. Pacing is a struggle. Humidity off the charts. Drank beer. Ate pizza.

Yeah HR goes out the window for me when it comes to summer. Which, if you've seen my other thread, could be why I'm fried right now