Run-Down Forums

[graeme]

Sorry if this is a dumb question, but I always hear people mention tempo runs, but I don't really know what they are.

thanks

[Dan]

Tempo running is a pretty all-encompassing term, although some people may assign more specific meaning to it. An example would be if you typically run 5-8 miles at 7 min/mile pace, then a tempo run might be 3 miles at 5:30-6:00 pace. Basically, holding a faster pace for an extended distance, with the distance and pace being determined by the race distance you are preparing for.

Dan

[ This Message was edited by: Dan on 2001-08-17 17:42 ]

[graeme]

ok, thanks

[Leech Boy]

When most running geeks use the term 'tempo run', they might call it a lactate threshold run. Of course, many people go out to fast in a race and die and then later say it was just a tempo run. Or they might not feel like they will run well so will say they are just using the race as a tempo run even though they are actually racing it. But that is not really what a tempo run is supposed to be.

Tempo runs are usually 20 to 40 minutes at a either 10 mile or half marathon pace. Most people warm up about 15 minutes and then cool down about 15 minutes after it. It is a good solid strength builder.

Kevin Beck of Running Times wrote an excellent article on tempo runs.

http://www.runningtimes.com/issues/99dec/tempo.htm

Leechboy

[Dan]

I was hoping someone would chime in that views tempo runs as having a more exact definition than me.

Dan

[graeme]

That is a good article, thanks (again)