Afstandsinterval

Afstandsinterval is a training method originating from running and endurance sports. It involves alternating periods of intense exercise, typically at maximum effort, with periods of rest or low-intensity exercise. This pattern of high and low-intensity intervals is repeated for a set duration, allowing athletes to accumulate a significant amount of training volume while minimizing the risk of injury or burnout.

The concept of afstandsinterval has been around since the early 20th century, when coaches first applied interval training principles to distance running. However, it wasn't until the 1970s and 1980s that interval training became a staple of endurance training for running, cycling, and swimming. The approach was popularized by coaches and scientists who recognized its effectiveness in improving aerobic capacity, speed, and endurance.

Afstandsinterval is typically structured around a series of intervals of varying duration and intensity. Warm-up periods are included at the beginning and end of each session, and athletes may also incorporate rest periods or active recovery between intervals. The training protocol can be tailored to fit specific fitness goals or sports, such as enhancing raw speed, building lactate threshold, or improving time trial performance.

When performed correctly, afstandsinterval can enhance aerobic capacity, increase speed, and boost overall endurance. Its structured approach to overload and recovery can be particularly beneficial for athletes transitioning from beginner to intermediate training levels, as it allows for a more efficient and sustainable progression of training load.