About this Video

• Video Title: The Norwegian Method Is Changing Endurance Training | Brad Culp Explains Why It Works
• Channel: JohnGetStrong
• Speakers: John, Brad Culp
• Duration: 00:41:53

Introduction

This video is an interview with Brad Culp, author of "The Norwegian Method," discussing the unique training approach employed by successful Norwegian endurance athletes. The conversation explores the historical context, key principles (high volume, low intensity, double threshold training), and the holistic lifestyle factors contributing to Norwegian athletic success.

Key Takeaways

1. The Norwegian Method: A holistic approach encompassing high-volume, low-intensity training, ideally controlled by lactate levels, and often incorporating double threshold training. It emphasizes a long-term perspective on athlete development, starting from a young age.
2. Key Norwegian Athletes: Jakob Ingebrigtsen (middle-distance runner), Kristian Blummenfelt (triathlete), and Gustav Iden (triathlete) exemplify the method's success. Their concurrent achievements highlight the system's effectiveness.
3. Bergen's Role: Bergen, Norway, has become a central hub for triathlon training, with its strong program built around Kristian Blummenfelt. The city's unique cultural pride and dedicated training facilities contribute to its success.
4. Training Volume and Intensity Control: Elite athletes like Kristian Blummenfelt train for 25-35 hours weekly, emphasizing intensity control to manage volume and injury risk. Jakob Ingebrigtsen's training, while focused on running, shares similar principles of intensity control and high weekly volume (though lower than triathletes).
5. Threshold Training: Defined as the highest sustainable intensity for about an hour, it’s a crucial component. Double threshold training involves hitting this intensity twice daily, maximizing stimulus through interval training. Zone 1 and 2 training (low-intensity) comprises a significant portion of overall training volume.
6. Recreational Application: Recreational athletes can adapt the method by prioritizing low-intensity, high-volume training sessions alongside controlled high-intensity intervals. Maintaining good form and a mindful approach to training intensity are key.
7. Frontier of the Method: Current research focuses on heat training and optimizing high-carbohydrate fueling strategies, particularly gut training, to enhance performance.