Should a runner generally train their strengths or weaknesses. Generally, should a fast runner (fast twitch, speed-based) do low mileage with speed work or high mileage with slower runs and gentle tempos? Obviously polarized options and the answer will lie somewhere in between. Does this also work vice versa for a slow runner (resistant, slow twitch, strength-based)? How does this change with a newer runner who is likely aerobically under developed but has some good speed?
I just follow Bolt’s training plan since I’m already good at endurance.
They should train their strength specific to their goals. A strength based 1500m runner trains much differently than a strength based marathoner, but both have a larger emphasis on the slower side of training, rather than the faster side.
I didn't read your post well, but yes, a speed based athlete does more intensity and less volume, but there are minimums for events. You will not be a great miler on 20 miles per week of all out intensity just because you're fast twitch, but you may excel better on 40-60 mpw rather than 70-100 mpw.
you're trying to make an absolute yes or no out of a year-long question. not every second of your year is coached. and not every second of your coached time is dictated. so you can set aside x% of time -- particularly in offseason -- as weakness work. strength is not abandoned, it just gets y% instead of 100% of the work. personally i think this is easiest done in the offseason. a XC pace metronome type maybe mixes in more speed work in the offseason. or tries something more like the mid distance in TF, if they do faster paced workouts.
or, to me, and this is subtler, you can emphasize or de-emphasize parts of in-season coached training. maybe you push a smidge harder in some shorter interval work or fartlek that allows for speed work, ease off long stuff.
in soccer terms, if i want to work on my skill, i maybe do skill drills with the ball every morning all summer, around summer league practices and games, strengths get worked on in the usual stuff, the supplement works on weaknesses.
and then if i feel like the coach during regular season gives skill short shrift, i maybe tweak the workouts and do them at different effort or for different purpose than intended. college soccer coach scrimmages us too hard day before games. i reduce effort but emphasize precision execution of skill.
It's not either or you need to do both. But in the latter stages of training focus more on your strength.
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