The summary of ‘Should you do the Norwegian 4×4 workout? | Variations and Results’

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00:00:0000:18:58

The video discusses the Norwegian 4×4 workout, involving 4-minute intervals at VO2 max for improved performance. Emphasis is placed on pacing, reaching a steady state, and gradually building up to the workout. The speaker highlights the significance of overall fitness training beyond just focusing on VO2 max and recommends a balanced training approach. Adding interval components to base training and weight reduction are also discussed as strategies to enhance performance. While the 4×4 method is beneficial, weight loss is also highlighted as crucial for improved VO2 max. Viewers are encouraged to incorporate the workout and explore further details in the book "Run Elite."

00:00:00

In this segment of the video, the focus is on how Norwegian athletes train, particularly with a workout called the Norwegian 4×4, which involves running hard for 4 minutes, taking 4 minutes easy, and repeating this four times to increase VO2max. It is emphasized that these 4-minute runs should be nearly all out but not sprinting from the start. Proper warm-up is also highlighted as essential before starting the workout, including easy running and neuromuscular preparation. Maintaining an even pace throughout the intervals is stressed for optimal performance.

00:03:00

In this segment of the video, the speaker discusses the importance of pacing during a four-minute interval workout. The goal is to maintain a consistent effort level throughout all four intervals, aiming to reach 90-95% of your heart rate max by the final interval. The rationale behind using four-minute intervals is explained in relation to VO2max training and reaching a steady state of oxygen utilization. The workout is designed to be done at a pace faster than 5k but closer to 5k to 10k race pace, depending on individual fitness levels. The speaker emphasizes the significance of reaching a steady state in order to optimize VO2 utilization during the workout.

00:06:00

In this segment of the video, the speaker discusses the importance of training to increase VO2 max. Running close to, or at, VO2 max is essential for improving it. The speaker explains that four-minute intervals are ideal because it takes time to reach VO2max, and shorter intervals may not reach it effectively. The four-by-four-minute workout is recommended as it provides a high workload and accumulates more time at VO2max pace compared to a race. This method allows for a larger dose of running at VO2max pace, ultimately improving performance.

00:09:00

In this segment of the video, the speaker discusses the Norwegian 4×4 workout, which involves doing intervals at VO2 max to enhance both cardiovascular and neuromuscular benefits. The workout consists of 4-minute intervals run at a pace between a mile and 5k race pace. The speaker suggests not jumping into the full workout immediately but gradually building up from 2-minute intervals to 4-minute intervals over a few weeks. Taking sufficient breaks and managing pace are crucial for optimal performance and avoiding injury. It is emphasized that this workout is challenging and should be approached gradually with patience and consistency.

00:12:00

In this segment of the video, the speaker emphasizes that VO2 max is not the sole determinant of performance improvement in running. They stress that focusing solely on improving VO2 max is not the key to enhancing performance. The speaker debunks the notion that VO2 max and lactate threshold are the main limiters of performance. Instead, they advocate for a training approach that addresses overall fitness and various performance limiters. The video discusses the importance of base training, support training, and specific training in a running program. It suggests incorporating workouts like Norwegian 4x4s in the support training phase to enhance performance. The speaker highlights the need for a balanced training approach involving both speed and volume training to improve overall performance.

00:15:00

In this segment of the video, the speaker discusses adding interval components to base training towards the latter portion. He suggests informal speed workouts like intervals or short tempo runs to address middle-tier systems like anaerobic and VO2 max development. The speaker recommends incorporating these workouts once per week during the final 25-30% of base training. Additionally, the speaker explains how reducing body weight, such as by going to the bathroom, can instantly improve VO2 max without additional training. Emphasizing the importance of diet improvements for weight loss and performance enhancement, the speaker encourages making dietary changes to shed excess body weight effectively.

00:18:00

In this segment of the video, the speaker discusses the Norwegian 4×4 workout technique. They emphasize that while the 4×4 method can improve VO2 max and overall health benefits, it should not be viewed as the ultimate solution. The speaker highlights the importance of weight loss in enhancing VO2 max, citing examples of marathon runners who have achieved significant improvements through shedding pounds. They encourage viewers to try the workout and suggest further learning from their book “Run Elite” available on Amazon or Audible.

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