[k__]

Interesting.

I'm not much into sport, but I had the impression that training was above the goal.

Like, you try to get into a situation that is harder than reality, so when you finally do the actual thing, it will be easier.

[derbOac]

It's complicated. What you suggest is true, but how you get to that point is different. The parent is also emphasizing high volume low intensity training which is part of many routines; high intensity interval training is another.

Often the strategy is to adopt both, until you gradually converge on some target (pace over distance). Where that target is is a different issue.