Arthur Lydiard

Arthur Lydiard (1917-2004) was a highly influential New Zealand running coach whose training methods revolutionized distance running and profoundly impacted…

By Staff , in Runners , at June 24, 2024 Tags: coaches, new zealand, runners

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Arthur Lydiard (1917-2004) was a highly influential New Zealand running coach whose training methods revolutionized distance running and profoundly impacted the sport worldwide. Known for his emphasis on high-mileage training and periodization, Lydiard coached numerous athletes to Olympic medals and world records.

Early Life and Background
Birth and Early Years:
Arthur Leslie Lydiard was born on July 6, 1917, in Auckland, New Zealand. He worked as a milkman, which contributed to his physical fitness and allowed him to train consistently.

Introduction to Running:
Lydiard took up running in his twenties and quickly developed an interest in distance running. He experimented with various training methods and found that increasing mileage improved his own performance significantly.

Coaching Career
Development of Training Philosophy:
Lydiard’s training philosophy was based on a systematic approach that emphasized building a strong aerobic base through high-mileage running. He advocated for long, steady runs at a conversational pace to develop endurance.
Periodization was a key component of his training, involving different phases such as base training, hill training, anaerobic training, and sharpening, each designed to prepare athletes for peak performance at specific times.

High-Mileage Training:
Lydiard believed that running high mileage (often around 100 miles per week) was essential for developing the aerobic capacity needed for distance running success. This was contrary to the common training practices of the time, which often focused on shorter, more intense workouts.

Notable Athletes:
Lydiard coached several athletes who achieved international success, including:
Peter Snell: A middle-distance runner who won gold medals in the 800 meters at the 1960 Rome Olympics and in both the 800 meters and 1500 meters at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.
Murray Halberg: Won gold in the 5000 meters at the 1960 Rome Olympics.
Barry Magee: Won bronze in the marathon at the 1960 Rome Olympics.
His training methods also influenced many other runners and coaches worldwide.

Impact and Legacy
Global Influence:
Lydiard’s methods gained international recognition and were adopted by coaches and athletes globally. He conducted coaching clinics in various countries, spreading his training philosophy and helping to improve the standards of distance running worldwide.

Lydiard Foundation:
The Lydiard Foundation was established to preserve and promote his training methods. It continues to provide education and resources for coaches and athletes.

Books and Publications:
Lydiard authored several books on running and training, including “Run to the Top” and “Running with Lydiard,” which outline his training principles and offer guidance for distance runners.

Awards and Honors:
Lydiard received numerous accolades for his contributions to athletics, including being appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1962. He was also inducted into the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame.

Legacy in Modern Training:
Lydiard’s emphasis on aerobic development and periodization remains a cornerstone of modern distance running training. His holistic approach, focusing on building a strong aerobic base before introducing speed work and race-specific training, continues to influence coaches and athletes at all levels.

Philosophical Contributions:
Lydiard’s philosophy extended beyond physical training; he emphasized the importance of mental toughness, consistency, and a long-term approach to athlete development.