I know that tempo is running short intervals at 50-75% of max effort, with medium rest intervals… but i am confused as to what tempo is used for… for example if ur doing tempo with short distances, is it used for speed develpoment? cuz i thouhgt u can only gain speed by running at max.velocity? Same question for longer distances… how does tempo help say a 1600 m runner, if the intervals are not done to full exertion??
Search for more info please. These tempo threads come up daily!
It’s for recovery, simply put. To increase top speed you must run at top speed. Tempo for a 1600m runner would be higher in volume. Continuous tempo rather than extensive tempo is often used as well with “Over Distance” runs.The intervals in tempo should never be to full exertion, so I don’t know why you’re asking–it is generally 65-75% (little lower or little higher depending on the person/time of season/etc.).
Get CFTS. It will clear things up.