Tempo Run

Definition

A tempo run is a sustained effort at lactate threshold intensity — "comfortably hard," approximately Zone 3-4. You can speak short phrases but not full sentences. Typical duration: 20-40 minutes of sustained tempo effort.

Why it matters

Tempo runs are the most effective way to raise lactate threshold, which directly determines your race pace at distances from 5K to marathon. A weekly tempo run is a cornerstone of most running programs.

How FlipMP uses it

FlipMP detects tempo sessions from heart rate and pace data. It tracks your tempo pace improvement at equivalent heart rate over months — the clearest indicator of lactate threshold improvement.

Related terms

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