"train hard to race hard" or "don't leave your race in training camp"?

This is a good question. I kindof feel like the people who leave their race in training come from two different povs:

1. They are the type that trains really hard for a few days/weeks, then ends up blowing off a bunch of sessions or taking off for several days. This person would probably have their unplanned best performance during a random Saturday in July rather than their race without meaning to....or

2. They are, like Phat said, going hard day after day and never recovering/rebuilding. That person would be just as likely to have a better session during a random training session than race day.

common theme is that there is little building of fitness over time and no reason to expect a best performance on race day. 

Love the topic, and Slayer hit it...  "Proper recovery will allow for quality workouts..."

Sometimes it is less about the workouts, and more about what you do between the workouts.  Find every opportunity for recovery.  And it's not just a day off.  Recovery between workouts is often just 6 more hours, and one more meal! 

Thank you for the advice, I really appreciate it. I wanted to ask this in the state forum instead of the main forum because I know so many of you are very knowledgeable on the subject.

Right now I alternate hard sessions with easier to moderate sessions, and so far I have had a great season. I think I have found a good balance for me, but am always looking to learn more and gather more information.