|
|
Fartlek
The word fartlek means speed play, and despite its funny name this type of training is an excellent way of getting in shape, and developing greater speed.
Though traditionally used by runners, fartlek training can be used in just about any cardio activity where you want to move away from the monotony of one-paced workouts and start to improve your overall fitness.
Whereas traditional interval training follows set patterns (e.g. sprint thirty seconds, recover ninety seconds, repeat eight times), fartlek training is more relaxed, more random, and ultimately, more enjoyable.
The key is to take advantage of the natural environment - this is why it lends itself so well to running. So for example, you could sprint from one street light or telephone pole to the next, recover for two, then repeat.
Alternatively you can do longer intervals (e.g. use city blocks as your measures), or multiples (sprint three street lights, recover for six).
That's the beauty of it - there's no set schedule. The idea is to constantly change the distance you sprint, your speed, where you do it, and your recovery period. If you wind up doing the same sets every time you go out, you begin to defeat the purpose.
So next time you're out running, remember the training with the funny name, and let yourself play with speed training - you'll have fun and get fitter!
|
|
