Over distance training refers to endurance training that exceeds that required for competition in a session. Over distance training serves to develop mental toughness and confidence through the fact that it causes athletes to continue even when fatigued.
A marathoner will perform a 30-mile run, or a triathlete will perform a 2 km swim in the place of the 1.5 km Olympic distance. Over-distance workouts induce physiological adaptations—greater metabolism of fat, formation of capillaries, and muscle endurance—but must be paced and fueled suitably in order to avoid injury due to overuse. Such workouts are usually employed judiciously as a way to complete base periods and lock in endurance capacity.
