Run intervals

6 x 800m @ 5k pace

– 1:00 rest between repeats –

Overview. We are progressing from 400m to 800 repeats @ 5k pace with slightly longer recoveries. You’ll need to maintain your 5k pace for twice as long as last week so these will feel harder.
Adaptation. Improve aerobic capacity and running economy at 5k pace. Enhance the ability to sustain faster running speeds and manage lactate accumulation and clearance through high-volume repetitions with short recovery periods.
Pace/Effort. Run each 800m repeat at your current estimated 5k race pace. This should feel challenging yet controlled for the duration of the repeat. Focus on hitting consistent times for each 800m.
Feel. Steady during the 800m repeat. The challenge comes from longer repeat duration and the cumulative fatigue over many repetitions and the short rest, which prevents full recovery and keeps your heart up through the session. RPE will increase from approximately 7/10 to 9/10 throughout the session.
Debrief.
– How was your pacing through the session?
– How much did you feel you recovered on the bike recovery intervals?
– Which movements felt easier, which ones harder? Did any bring up your HR more than others? How was your breathing when that happened?
– What two (2) things can you be proud of in this session? What one (1) thing must you improve?