{"id":1269,"date":"2021-10-09T09:05:43","date_gmt":"2021-10-09T09:05:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.joggo.run\/?p=1269"},"modified":"2024-08-21T14:23:43","modified_gmt":"2024-08-21T14:23:43","slug":"what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is Fartlek Run and Your Guide to a Successful Fartlek Training Program"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Want to combine speed training with <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-to-run-faster-and-build-endurance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">endurance training<\/a> in one workout? Fartlek runs could become your next favorite way to train.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Read on to learn everything you need to know about fartlek training. We\u2019ll see how it differs from other runs, review its benefits, and show you how to do it. But first\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"in-this-article\"><\/span>In This Article<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_56_1 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >In This Article:<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#in-this-article\" title=\"In This Article\">In This Article<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#what-is-a-fartlek-run\" title=\"What Is a Fartlek Run?\">What Is a Fartlek Run?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#difference-between-fartlek-run-and-other-speed-workouts\" title=\"Difference Between Fartlek Run and Other Speed Workouts\">Difference Between Fartlek Run and Other Speed Workouts<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#benefits-of-fartlek-training\" title=\"Benefits of Fartlek Training\">Benefits of Fartlek Training<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3'><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#1-speed-and-endurance\" title=\"1. Speed and endurance\">1. Speed and endurance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#2-close-to-the-%e2%80%9creal%e2%80%9d\" title=\"2. Close to the \u201cReal\u201d\">2. Close to the \u201cReal\u201d<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#3-variety-and-fun\" title=\"3. Variety and fun\">3. Variety and fun<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#4-aerobic-focus\" title=\"4. Aerobic focus\">4. Aerobic focus<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#5-burned-calories\" title=\"5. Burned calories\">5. Burned calories<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#how-to-do-a-fartlek-run-workout\" title=\"How to Do a Fartlek Run Workout\">How to Do a Fartlek Run Workout<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3'><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#tips-to-keep-in-mind\" title=\"Tips to keep in mind:\">Tips to keep in mind:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#sample-fartlek-workouts\" title=\"Sample Fartlek Workouts\">Sample Fartlek Workouts<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3'><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#1-marathon-focused\" title=\"1. Marathon-focused\">1. Marathon-focused<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#2-%e2%80%9csurroundings%e2%80%9d-fartlek\" title=\"2. \u201cSurroundings\u201d fartlek\">2. \u201cSurroundings\u201d fartlek<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#3-5k10k-specific-fartlek-run\" title=\"3. 5K\/10K specific fartlek run\">3. 5K\/10K specific fartlek run<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#4-ladder-workout\" title=\"4. Ladder workout\">4. Ladder workout<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#5-treadmill-fartlek-run\" title=\"5. Treadmill fartlek run\">5. Treadmill fartlek run<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#how-frequently-should-you-do-fartlek-running-sessions\" title=\"How Frequently Should You Do Fartlek Running Sessions?\">How Frequently Should You Do Fartlek Running Sessions?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/what-is-fartlek-run-and-your-guide-to-successful-fartlek-training-program\/#take-it-to-the-next-level\" title=\"Take It to the Next Level\">Take It to the Next Level<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"what-is-a-fartlek-run\"><\/span>What Is a Fartlek Run?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s begin with a simple fartlek definition. Fartlek is running at different speeds and intensities to boost your fitness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s a type of high-intensity interval where you may vary <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-to-determine-your-running-pace\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">your pace<\/a>, but you run continuously without stopping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, you can run for 5 minutes or 500 meters intensely. And then run lightly for the same time or distance before switching to a moderate pace for, say, 3 minutes, and so on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Calling fartlek a form of play isn\u2019t an overstatement. It lets you focus on running by feel rather than adhering to a strict structure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fartlek isn\u2019t only a fun and interesting running workout. It mixes fast and slow, hard and easy running to increase your <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-to-build-muscular-endurance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">endurance<\/a>. It\u2019s also great for improving your running speed. Plus, it can boost your anaerobic threshold and has a host of other benefits.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although fartlek is similar to interval training, it differs in some key aspects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"difference-between-fartlek-run-and-other-speed-workouts\"><\/span>Difference Between Fartlek Run and Other Speed Workouts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike interval training, fartlek isn\u2019t structured. Intervals combine short bursts of intense running with <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/run-recovery\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">recovery<\/a> periods when you jog or walk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, when you do intervals, you may do 4 x 500-meter reps with recovery bouts in between lasting slightly longer than a rep. Fartlek involves continuous running without complete rest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fartlek also differs from tempo runs. You can run tempo runs at a comfortably hard pace, but they require a consistent pace based on your race speed. Meanwhile, fartlek lets you mix paces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"benefits-of-fartlek-training\"><\/span>Benefits of Fartlek Training<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s more to fartlek training than its element of play. Here are some of the best reasons to incorporate it into your workouts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1-speed-and-endurance\"><\/span>1. Speed and endurance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>According to this<a href=\"https:\/\/journals.plos.org\/plosone\/article?id=10.1371\/journal.pone.0073182\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> meta-analysis of high-intensity interval training<\/a>, fartlek can boost speed and improve the anaerobic threshold better than simple endurance training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3438148\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> anaerobic threshold<\/a> is the exercise intensity level at which lactic acid starts building up in your blood. When this happens, it hinders your muscles\u2019 ability to contract, slowing you down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another<a href=\"https:\/\/www.kheljournal.com\/archives\/2015\/vol2issue2\/PartE\/3-3-75-957.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> study<\/a> notes the beneficial effects of fartlek training on your calf muscles. By <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/best-calf-exercises-for-big-calves\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">building more calf muscle fibers<\/a>, it helps boost your running endurance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2-close-to-the-%e2%80%9creal%e2%80%9d\"><\/span>2. Close to the \u201cReal\u201d<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Fartlek prepares you for the demands of a long-distance race. Tempo runs and interval training have their benefits. But in an actual race, you don\u2019t get to stop and rest or run at a consistent pace from start to finish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fartlek simulates continuous running and natural pace variations. Because of this, fartlek is ideal for racers and sports training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3-variety-and-fun\"><\/span>3. Variety and fun<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Doing the same intervals can start feeling dreary after a while. The same goes for running at a consistent pace. More than feeling boring, it can become demotivating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s when fartlek can save the day by adding variety and fun to your workouts. With fartlek, you can improvise as you go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can sprint to the red car parked at the entrance to the park. Then slow down to enjoy the view of the alley lined with old trees. Then speed up again for 5 minutes until you get to your favorite view of the lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4-aerobic-focus\"><\/span>4. Aerobic focus<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Running through your recovery period after an intense run helps you build a stronger aerobic system. If you\u2019re planning to race in a 5K or longer races, you\u2019ll need plenty of aerobic energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike sprinting, long-distance running requires a steady supply of oxygen to power up muscles. And it needs this to be consistent and adapted to the pace you\u2019re aspiring for. Fartlek is great training for your aerobic system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5-burned-calories\"><\/span>5. Burned calories<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Like other HIIT workouts, fartlek can help you <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-to-burn-fat-running\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">lose weight<\/a>. You can burn more calories during fartlek runs compared to running at a consistent pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This happens because as you increase your speed, your body has to burn more calories to keep you going. And since you\u2019re not stopping at any point in your workout but keep on going, you keep burning calories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-to-do-a-fartlek-run-workout\"><\/span>How to Do a Fartlek Run Workout<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The beauty of fartlek is that you can alter your runs from one workout to the next. But it\u2019s good to start with a typical fartlek run to see how your body responds to it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Begin with 10 minutes of running at a warm-up pace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Next, switch gears and run for up to 3 minutes at a race pace. Or sprint for 1 minute. After this, slow down to a slower jog pace but keep running. Don\u2019t walk or stop.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Alternate race-pace running with slow running for up to 7 or 8 repetitions. That would add up to a total of 16 to 32 minutes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>After your last fast-slow pace change, end your session with a 10-minute run at a slow, cooldown pace.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Important: <\/strong>Integrate a <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/stretches-before-running\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">warm-up<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/running-cool-down\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cool-down<\/a> into your fartlek runs as described to <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/injury-prevention-for-running-enthusiasts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">reduce your injury risk<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The best fartlek training app can help you build fartlek runs into your workouts and enjoy each one. If you\u2019re new to fartlek, an app can help you get started more easily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"tips-to-keep-in-mind\"><\/span>Tips to keep in mind:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Beginners start slow<\/strong> \u2013 If you\u2019re new to fartlek runs, you don\u2019t want to push yourself too hard. Allow for a few sessions that aren\u2019t too demanding to get a feel for it. Your first fartlek shouldn\u2019t feel exhausting.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Keep running <\/strong>\u2013<strong> <\/strong>You don\u2019t want to stop at any point during your fartlek run. If you find you have to, you\u2019re pushing yourself too hard. Reduce reps and\/or slow down.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Be goal-focused <\/strong>\u2013 Adapt your fartlek to your overall running goals. <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/couch-to-marathon-running-how-long-does-it-take-to-train-for-a-marathon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Training for a marathon<\/a>? <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/9-keys-to-run-longer-than-you-thought-possible\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Run longer<\/a> at a pace closest to the race pace you want to achieve. <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-long-is-5k\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Training for a 5K<\/a>? Mix 60-second fast pace running with longer periods of running at a slower pace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use your environment to your advantage <\/strong>\u2013<strong> <\/strong>Adjust your pace to your environment and let it structure your sessions. This way, you become one with your surroundings and up the fun factor of your runs. For example, challenge yourself to run hard on the incline, slow down during the descent, then sprint to the nearest bench. Then keep running to the clump of trees in the distance, and so on.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"sample-fartlek-workouts\"><\/span>Sample Fartlek Workouts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s no right or wrong way to run a fartlek so long as you keep running. But with a fartlek program optimized for your race goals, you can see results faster. Here are some examples of fartlek training exercises you may want to try:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1-marathon-focused\"><\/span>1. Marathon-focused<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This variation on the classic fartlek prepares you for the last 6 kilometers of a marathon. Or that challenging part of the race when prepared runners keep pushing while others fall behind. Here\u2019s how to do it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>After your warm-up, run 2.5 miles at your marathon pace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Then run 600 meters at a steady effort.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Repeat each 5 times.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2-%e2%80%9csurroundings%e2%80%9d-fartlek\"><\/span>2. \u201cSurroundings\u201d fartlek<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This is one of the most fun types of fartlek runs. More than good training, it can make you enjoy your surroundings more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Warm up with 10 minutes of <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/jogging-for-beginners\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">jogging<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set your eyes on a tree, car, mailbox, or some other landmark in the distance. Run to it at a fast pace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>After reaching the landmark, slow down to your normal <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-to-determine-your-running-pace\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">running pace<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Once you\u2019ve recovered, pick another landmark, and run to it fast again.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Repeat several times without exhausting yourself.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3-5k10k-specific-fartlek-run\"><\/span>3. <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/how-long-is-5k\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">5K<\/a>\/<a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/10k-in-miles-and-training-plan-for-10k-race\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10K<\/a> specific fartlek run<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This fartlek workout prepares you for shorter races. It\u2019s great for beginners and also boosts your body\u2019s ability to use oxygen to power you up during races.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Warm up at a jogging pace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Run at a fast but controlled pace that\u2019s 10 seconds faster per mile than your 5K race pace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recover with a 1-minute jog.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Repeat 10 times.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4-ladder-workout\"><\/span>4. Ladder workout<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This type of fartlek is also known as a pyramid fartlek run. If you like giving structure to your runs, you\u2019ll like it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Warm up with a 10-minute jog.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Run 2 minutes at your 5K pace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Run 2 minutes at an easy pace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Run 3 minutes close to your 10K pace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Then, recover with 2 minutes of running at an easy pace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Run 4 minutes at your half-marathon race pace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Run easy for 2 minutes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Run 4 minutes at your half-marathon pace again.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Run easy for 2 minutes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&nbsp;Run 3 minutes at your 10K pace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&nbsp;Recover with a 2-minute easy run.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&nbsp;Run 2 minutes faster than your 5K pace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&nbsp;Lastly, cool down with a 10-minute jog.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5-treadmill-fartlek-run\"><\/span>5. Treadmill fartlek run<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>What about rainy, blisteringly hot, or freezing days? Those are perfect for a treadmill fartlek run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Warm up for 10 minutes at 7mph.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Run 1 minute at 10mph.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Without stopping, increase the incline to 6% and keep running for 30 seconds.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Jog at 7mph for 3 minutes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Run for 2 minutes at 11mph.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For one minute, shift to 9mph and up the incline to 7%.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Slow down to 6mph for 3 minutes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increase the incline to 7% for 2 minutes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Up the speed to 9.5mph and keep running for as long as you can maintain your form.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&nbsp;Cool down with a 5-minute slow jog.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-frequently-should-you-do-fartlek-running-sessions\"><\/span>How Frequently Should You Do Fartlek Running Sessions?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>How many fartlek runs you do depends on your running goals and current fitness level. A personalized plan can help you strike a good balance between effort and recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start with at least one fartlek run every 2 weeks. If your current workout is already demanding, you can do a fartlek every 3 to 5 weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you really like fartlek, you can do it every week. But make sure to adjust your running plan accordingly. Doing fartlek on top of 2\u20133 weekly running sessions may be too much. It can increase your <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/common-runners-foot-injuries\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">injury<\/a> risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"take-it-to-the-next-level\"><\/span>Take It to the Next Level<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Fun, exciting, never boring, and effective, fartlek runs can transform your workouts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fartlek runs are beginner-friendly. They\u2019re great training for long-distance running. Do them to boost your speed, endurance, anaerobic threshold, and mental strength. With fartlek in your workouts, reaching your <a href=\"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/golden-rule-of-race-day\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">race day<\/a> goals will become easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, how about some speed play next time you run?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Want to combine speed training with endurance training in one workout? Fartlek runs could become your next favorite way to&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":1271,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"18","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4,18],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1269"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1269"}],"version-history":[{"count":56,"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1269\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3364,"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1269\/revisions\/3364"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1271"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1269"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/joggo.run\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1269"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}