Running Camp Director Roy Benson on the Importance of Summer Training
Dear Running Camp Alums and Potential Summer Campers,
I'm sure most of you are running track this spring. I'm sure that a few of you are doing other sports like soccer, lacrosse and baseball. And I'm positive about a certain few of you who are doing nothing at all. That's not good and we know who you are....so best you start getting in some easy mileage to get back in your x-c coach's good graces.
No matter what your status, if you are planning to run next fall, it's not too early to get signed up for this summer's running camps. I, of course, can't speak for all the other directors, but on behalf of the Smoky Mountain Camp that I have directed for its respective 35 year history, encourage you to come to a location nearest you.
So, check with your coaches; talk with your teammates; discuss with your parents, but decide soon where and what week you're coming to camp. Then reserve that space so you're not left out.
If you are involved in an intensive season of track training and racing, be sure that you allow for a full two weeks of active rest before starting up your summer miles and getting in shape for cross country. However, by mid June your 10 week period of base building should be under way. It's not just how many miles you put in, it’s the consistency of running week after week that will really help you get ready for camp. This helps you can maximize your training while at camp and prepares you for the state meet one week after you get back home. It's that good base mileage period that allows you to peak at the right time...the end of the season, not the beginning or in the middle. In short, start planning now for summer. It's never too earlier and soon it could be too late.
Best wishes for now and miles of smiles,
Coach Roy Benson
Smoky Mountain Cross Country Camp
I'm sure most of you are running track this spring. I'm sure that a few of you are doing other sports like soccer, lacrosse and baseball. And I'm positive about a certain few of you who are doing nothing at all. That's not good and we know who you are....so best you start getting in some easy mileage to get back in your x-c coach's good graces.
No matter what your status, if you are planning to run next fall, it's not too early to get signed up for this summer's running camps. I, of course, can't speak for all the other directors, but on behalf of the Smoky Mountain Camp that I have directed for its respective 35 year history, encourage you to come to a location nearest you.
So, check with your coaches; talk with your teammates; discuss with your parents, but decide soon where and what week you're coming to camp. Then reserve that space so you're not left out.
If you are involved in an intensive season of track training and racing, be sure that you allow for a full two weeks of active rest before starting up your summer miles and getting in shape for cross country. However, by mid June your 10 week period of base building should be under way. It's not just how many miles you put in, it’s the consistency of running week after week that will really help you get ready for camp. This helps you can maximize your training while at camp and prepares you for the state meet one week after you get back home. It's that good base mileage period that allows you to peak at the right time...the end of the season, not the beginning or in the middle. In short, start planning now for summer. It's never too earlier and soon it could be too late.
Best wishes for now and miles of smiles,
Coach Roy Benson
Smoky Mountain Cross Country Camp
