As I participate in more of these races, I realize that most people are using a variation of the run/walk/run method developed by Jeff Galloway. When I first learned about the method, I thought only slow runners were interested in it.
But as I am learning, I see that many very fast runners use his method!
Recently, WeREndurance has welcomed an influx of new runners, many of whom are hitting impressive paces between 7 and 8 minutes per mile. This surge of faster runners brings an exciting challenge: helping them reach their next level of performance while staying injury-free.
If you’re a faster runner aiming to qualify for prestigious races like the Boston Marathon, you might wonder how strategies like the Galloway Method could benefit your training. Let’s explore why this approach is gaining traction even among speedier athletes.
Jeff Galloway’s Tips for Qualifying for the Boston Marathon
The Boston Marathon represents the gold standard for many runners, but achieving a qualifying time is no easy feat. For men aged 18-34, the full marathon cutoff is a grueling 3 hours and 15 minutes. That’s where Jeff Galloway’s book, How to Qualify for the Boston Marathon, comes into play.
Galloway, a former Olympian and renowned running coach, addresses faster runners directly in this guide, offering strategies to meet those demanding time standards. The book highlights how incorporating structured walk breaks can improve performance, even for athletes with sub-8-minute-mile paces.
Why Faster Runners Choose the Galloway Method
At first glance, taking walk breaks might seem counterintuitive for faster runners. However, Jeff Galloway’s scientifically-backed method proves otherwise. Here’s why runners of all paces—including those chasing Boston Marathon qualifying times—adopt this approach.
Walk Breaks Can Make You Faster
One surprising benefit of the Galloway Method is speed improvement. On average, runners who implement walk breaks finish a half marathon 7 minutes faster than those who run non-stop. Taking intentional breaks helps conserve energy, enabling you to maintain a strong pace throughout the race.
Reduced Fatigue and Faster Recovery
Walk breaks serve as mini-recovery periods. They help erase fatigue during long runs, reduce post-run soreness, and push back the dreaded “wall” that can derail your performance. This is especially beneficial in marathon training, where cumulative mileage often leads to burnout.
Injury Prevention and Longevity
Injury prevention is key to sustaining success for faster runners. The Galloway Method minimizes the chance of aches and pains by easing the impact on the body. It also supports older or heavier runners looking to maintain their pace and endurance levels.
Mental and Emotional Benefits
Walk breaks aren’t just physical recovery tools; they offer mental relief. Activating the brain’s frontal lobe keeps you focused, motivated, and in control of your attitude throughout the race. Breaking the distance into smaller, manageable units can make even the longest runs feel more achievable.
Boston Marathon Training with WeREndurance
At Team Galloway Long Island, we’re thrilled to coach this new wave of faster runners and guide them toward their marathon goals. Our training program is built on the principles of the Galloway Method, offering personalized strategies to help every runner optimize their performance. Whether chasing a Boston qualifying time or aiming for a personal best, this method offers something.
Join Team Galloway Long Island
Interested in taking your running to the next level? WeREndurance provides expert coaching, a supportive community, and proven strategies to help runners of all paces reach their goals.
Reach out to me and find out how the Galloway Method can revolutionize your running. Let’s get faster, wiser, and stronger together!
