Got a bit of a morning run dilemma and was wondering what peoples thoughts were:

Most science applied to kickboxing tends to suggest explosive sprint work as the best type of running suited to our needs. Long runs are still good for aerobic fitness and weight loss, but generally don't boost anaerobic fitness, which is what we require when bursting for short 2/3 minute periods in the ring.

I used to do a circuit in the morning, where I would sprint a stair set, jog 30 metres to the rugby field, sprint 100m, jog across, sprint 100m. I used to repeat this 3 or 4 times and then do a couple of hill sprints on the end.

The problem I found with this method is that I used to get sick quite easily. Due to the stop start nature of sprints, you tend to be gasping for air in the cold and letting your body heat drop between sets, which is a good way to get sick training in the morning when it's cold.

The problem with long runs, is, as mentioned, their lack of applicability for ring gain (bar the weight loss benefits).

So, I was wondering what morning running routines or methods people advocate to do in order to stay healthy and develop useful fitness for the ring? I was thinking of doing farleks and sprinting 1 lamp post and jogging the next 2. That way I'd keep the body heat up but still work anaerobic fitness. Jump in the hot shower when I get back before doing the stretch, and I'd minimize any lingering exposure to the cold.

Treadmills have never been my thing, too monotonous and frustrating when there is only one set pace. Could be swayed though if there are major gains available through them.

Sorry to do the 1 millionth running thread on this forum, but the search engine wasn't behaving when I tried using it.