4x4 intervals are the most overrated workout in running, and continuing to do them could be the very thing stopping you from breaking your personal record.
You've probably heard about 4x4 intervals for boosting VO2 max, but are they really the best way to get faster? In this episode, I break down the real science behind VO2 max training and explain why the 4x4 method might be holding you back. I’ll explore why this popular workout often fails both new and experienced runners and, more importantly, I’ll share proven, alternative interval workouts that are just as good—if not better. You'll learn the fundamentals of how this training works and get a clear plan on how to structure these workouts to build speed and endurance safely.
Key Takeaways
- Four-by-four intervals aren’t the gold standard they’re made out to be—they’re often too hard for beginners and too short for experienced runners to maximize VO₂ max gains.
- There are smarter, research-backed VO₂ max workouts—like 30/30s, 12 x 400m, 6 x 3 minutes, and 4 x 5 minutes—that match different experience levels and race goals better.
- Time spent actually at VO₂ max matters more than the workout name—shorter recoveries and properly paced efforts can give you more quality minutes near your true aerobic ceiling.
Timestamps
- [00:17] What You'll Learn
- [00:59] What Are 4x4 Intervals?
- [02:00] Why Are They So Popular?
- [03:08] 4 Reasons Why 4x4 Intervals Are Overrated
- [05:39] Free Improve Your Vo2Max Guide
- [06:02] The 4 Better Vo2 Max Workouts
- [06:37] Option 1: 30/30 Protocol (Billat Method) - For Variety Speed demons
- [09:20] Option 2: 12x400m - For All Levels (Especially Speedy Folks That Like To Go Fast)
- [12:12] Help Another Runner Out
- [12:26] Option 3: 6x3 Minutes - For Intermediate Runners
- [13:04] Option 4: 4x5 Minutes (Jack Daniels Method) - For Experienced Runners
- [15:35] How To Fit This In Your Schedule
- [16:28] Learn About Vo2 Max First Before You Train It
Links & Learnings
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