Key Run Workout #1: The Tempo Run

What is a Tempo Run?
A tempo run—also known as an anaerobic threshold or lactate-threshold run—is a pace about 20 to 25 seconds per mile slower than your current 5K race pace.
A tempo pace is one that you  can maintain steadily (although not necessarily comfortably) for at least 30 minutes.

For example, if you're current 5k pace is 22:00 or 7:06/mile, your Tempo Pace is 7:26-7:31/mile.

The structure of a Tempo Run workout varies, but we'll use the following for this Friday's workout:
1. 800-1200m warm-up run, stretches and drills

2. TEMPO
Girls 1 mile at easy pace (8:45-9:30), gradually increasing speed, then 2 miles at Tempo Pace, followed by 1 mile cool down at easy pace. This is a continuous  4 mile run. No walking recoveries--unless necessary.

Boys 1 mile at easy pace (8:15-9:00), gradually increasing speed, then 3 miles at Tempo Pace, followed by 1 mile cool down at easy pace. This is a continuous  4 mile run. No walking recoveries--unless necessary.

This is one of my favorite workouts! It is an essential for racing at all distances--and is a fantastic tool for developing mental toughness!

​-Coach Block