Group of friends running in city street in morning.
Can pace running help runners concentrate on other things, like breathing, form, or mental toughness?
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Running is a sport many participate in and doesn’t require any equipment—only quality running shoes. Running in races comes with various physical and mental challenges. Some runners enjoy running in races and marathons but want to perfect their abilities and techniques, become more consistent, finish in a certain time, or pass a personal record. This is where pace running or working with a pace runner can help achieve those goals.
A pace runner, or pacer, is an experienced runner who can run at a set pace for a long time. The pacer sets the speed so the runner can focus on running. Pacers run in races or marathons to help set the pace for a runner or runners. There are different reasons why professional and amateur runners work with a pace runner. Professional runners often use pace runners to work on techniques and help reach new levels in their running, while amateur runners can work on improving their overall running abilities. There are three typical types of pacers.
There are different reasons for having a pacer, but they are based on the runner’s goals.
A study focused on elite athletes who used pacers. It found that running together at a realistic speed helped optimize and achieve finishing time goals. (Casado A. et al., 2021) However, not all elite events allow pacers to participate. Some championship events, like the Olympics and NCAA Championships, do not allow pacer runners.
Benefits of running with a pacer.
Running with a pacer can sometimes be more stressful than beneficial, especially for amateur runners. A pacer or pace group can be helpful, but it also can create more stress for some amateur runners.
An experienced runner who wants to be a pacer for a race can contact a running organization about becoming a pace runner.
Individuals can talk to local running experts or a running coach. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness solution. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent injury. We can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal issues.
Casado, A., Hanley, B., Jiménez-Reyes, P., & Renfree, A. (2021). Pacing profiles and tactical behaviors of elite runners. Journal of Sport and Health Science, 10(5), 537–549. doi.org/10.1016/j.jshs.2020.06.011
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The information herein on "Pace Running: Benefits of Working with Pacers" is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional.
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