Letter from the Editor, February 2017
Hello readers, and welcome to the February 2017 edition of The Hurdle Magazine. Since the last issue, I put out a couple ads seeking some writing help, and received many responses. So this issue, as well as future issues, will include voices other than mine, providing you with more perspectives on the hurdling events and many of the training and health-related topics that connect to them.
In this issue we have two articles from other writers. The first one, “The Real Value of Sports Drinks … And Which Ones Are the Best,” was written by Melinda Burris Willms, a freelance writer and sports nutrition expert. In this very informative article, Burris does just what the title suggests – she provides a thoroughly researched analysis of the value of sports drinks and which ones are the most effective for athletes.
The other “new” voice is not really a new voice at all. Those who have been subscribing since the magazine’s inception may remember that Dr. Kelsey Armstrong was quoted in several articles I wrote about sports-related injuries. A podiatrist, track coach, former 400m runner at the University of Pennsylvania, and current masters runner, Armstrong wrote “A Process Oriented Approach” for this month’s issue of The Hurdle Magazine. In this very thought-provoking article, Armstrong argues that focusing on short-term goals enhances motivation and prevents burnout, and that focusing on the process of getting better is a much healthier approach than focusing on the outcome.
“Advice for Young Hurdle Coaches” is an article I wrote that was inspired by running into some former athletes of mine at track meets recently. They were coaching, and picking my brain for training ideas, etc. In the article, I provide my short list of what I feel the most important things are for a coach who is trying to grow some roots and establish him or herself as a reliable guide and mentor for young athletes.
“Too High Over the First Hurdle” is a teaching article focusing on helping hurdlers learn how to stay low and quick over hurdle one, as that is the hurdle that most hurdlers tend to clear with too much air space. It’s all about the start, creating and maintaining proper angles, and staying aggressive from step one.
This month’s workout, “With and Without Hurdles Workout” is designed for the 300/400m hurdler looking to begin introducing speed into the training plan after emphasizing speed-endurance throughout the indoor season. It’s a mid-week type of workout that should not be done one day or two days prior a competition.
“Keni 12.20” is this month’s featured great race. Here, I take a look back at last year’s world record race run by Keni Harrison only two weeks after the bitter disappointment of not qualifying for the US Olympic team at the Olympic Trials, where she finished sixth. The article takes a look inside the mental strength required to recover so quickly from such heartbreak, as well as the technical proficiency Harrison displayed in her world record race.
Enjoy the articles, good luck with your training, and thank you for your support!
Steve McGill
