What are Alternative Workouts for Distance Running?

I am in an area that is a bit dangerous to run 8 to 10 miles due to traffic. I do have access to a track and an area where I can run intervals and speed work.

Are there any workouts that I can run to substitute the easy distance running on the track? I am open to suggestions.


Answer by Dominique:
Hi there,
Thanks for your running training question.
Short answer.... no, not really.

The issue is that each running speed is quite specific to the type of benefit you are trying to reap.

You do your easy running to build your stamina, your aerobic base and to make those legs and running muscles stronger.

Your tempo runs are to increase your lactic acid threshold and you do intervals to improve your body's ability to deliver oxygen to the muscles.

So, replacing easy runs by intervals or other speed work is simply not going to work very well. Although very monotonous, you may wish to run your easy runs on the track? Another solution is driving to a better place to do your runs, e.g. a nearby big enough park or a quieter part of town.

An alternative, not as good as running, to easy running is other cardio workouts, e.g. cycling. It will help getting that stamina up, but development of the lower legs, the tendons etc is a lot less when running.


Hope this helps.
Kind regards,
Dominique