SMILE!

When I started running, I often felt lost during conversations because other runners would use complicated terms to explain their runs to me. I quickly realized their words were simple; I had to educate myself to speak their language. I also realized it is crucial to know some of these terms because when measuring running performance, these terms define critical benchmarks in the journey. Running does not only mean running pace. It involves bettering yourself in every aspect of the sport.

If you’re new to running or have been running for a while, you may have heard some terms that sound like a new language. But don’t worry, I’m here to help! Learning these terms will make you feel like a pro and help you communicate better with other runners and understand your runs better. Let’s dive into the top ten running terms you need to know:

1. Cadence: This means the number of steps you take per minute while running. It’s important because a high cadence can help you run more efficiently and reduce the risk of injury.
2. Easy Run: As the name suggests, this relaxed run should feel effortless. An excellent way to know if you’re running at an easy pace is if you can chat with someone while running.
3. Speedwork: These runs are faster than your regular runs. These runs are designed to improve your speed and endurance. Examples of speedwork runs include hill runs and fartlek runs.
4. Fartlek: This term means “speed play.” Fartlek runs involve alternating between periods of fast running and slower recovery periods. The key with fartlek runs is that you do not stop running throughout the run. 
5. Tempo Run: This run is done at a steady, comfortably hard pace for twenty minutes or more.
6. Hill Repeats: This workout involves running up a hill at a hard effort and then jogging or walking back down to recover. Hill repeats will help you build leg strength and improve your running speed.
7. Stride: This refers to a short burst of running at a fast pace. Strides are often done during a warm-up before a race or hard workout for 50-100 meters long.
8. Negative Split: This is a race strategy where you run the second half of the race faster than the first half. It’s a unique technique used by experienced runners to achieve personal bests.
9. VO2 Max: The dictionary definition of VO2 max is the amount (volume) of oxygen your body uses while exercising as hard as possible. This measures your body’s maximum oxygen uptake capacity. Many runners use their VO2 Max metric to measure their overall improvement as a runner. It’s used to assess aerobic fitness and can be improved through regular training.
10. Cross-Training: This means doing other exercise besides running, such as swimming, cycling, and strength training. Running is a repetitive movement, and when you add additional workouts into your routine, your risk of overuse injury is reduced drastically. Some runners also think of cross-training as a rest/recovery day, as it allows them to rest their legs from the repetitive motion of running while still working out their cardiovascular system. 

The list of running terms is endless, but knowing these ten terms is a good start. In learning the terminology runners use, I can better contribute to conversations and understand the significance of concise and specific training plans.

Understanding these terms will help you communicate better with other runners, tailor your workouts to your specific goals, and ultimately become a more efficient and confident runner. So, don’t be overwhelmed by the new language of running. Learn it and take your running journey to the next level!

For more information on running terminology, you can go here. 

Sincerely,

Manisha