What does fartlek training involve?

Fartlek training is a form of exercise that combines continuous training with interval training. The term "fartlek" means "speed play" in Swedish, and this type of training involves alternating between periods of fast running and slower-paced running over varied terrain. This method allows the athlete to improve both their speed and endurance while also enhancing their ability to recover during running exertion.

In fartlek training, the transitions between fast and slow running are typically unstructured and can be influenced by the environment, such as sprinting to a landmark, like a tree or a bench, and then slowing down again. This variability mimics the unpredictable nature of race conditions, making it an effective way to prepare for various competition scenarios.

While other forms of training like long-distance running and interval training do have their benefits, they are more structured and do not incorporate the varied terrain and pacing adjustments that characterize fartlek training. Similarly, options involving swimming and cycling are different forms of workout that do not align with the essence of fartlek, which is focused specifically on running with variable intensity.