Foundational Uphill Strides

Foundational Uphill Strides

Workout - Foundational Uphill Strides

  • 25min @ 6'30''/km
  • 5 lots of:
    • 22s @ 3'00''/km
    • 1min 30s rest
  • 7min 30s @ 6'30''/km
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Intro

Here’s a breakdown of How to Run Strides: 4 Types of Strides (Easiest - Hardest) from StrengthRunning. Watch the full video for complete context—we’ve excerpted the core details so you can get started with this workout today.

Key Points

  • Strides are fast, sub‑maximal efforts that sharpen mechanics, build speed confidence, and enhance overall run quality.
  • Four variations exist: uphill strides (easiest), flat strides, hill sprints, and track sprints (hardest). Use them across easy, moderate, or hard days as a speed-building tool.
  • Start with a gentle incline (3‑5% grade) to lock in form, then progress through flat ground, steep hill work, and eventually short, max-speed track repeats.
  • Rest generously between reps (1‑2 min walking for slopes, 90‑120 s for hill sprints)—this keeps you hitting speed without overexerting.

Workout Example

1️⃣ Uphill Strides (Easy)

  • Locate a 3‑5% slope.
  • Accelerate over 20‑25 seconds across roughly 100 m, hitting 95‑98 % of your top speed with a gradual bell‑curve ramp.
  • Walk or easy jog for 1‑2 min between efforts.
  • 4‑6 reps.

2️⃣ Flat Strides (Intermediate)

  • Perform on flat ground—a track or paved path works well.
  • 20‑second push covering about 100 m to 95‑98 % max speed.
  • Walk 1‑2 min between reps.
  • 4‑6 reps.

3️⃣ Hill Sprints (Hard)

  • Select the steepest hill you can safely manage.
  • Run all‑out for 8‑10 seconds (scale to 6‑12 seconds if you’re new or very advanced).
  • Allow 90‑120 seconds of easy walking or standing to recover fully.
  • 4‑6 reps.

4️⃣ Track Sprint (Hardest)

  • After a warm‑up, run 40‑60 m at maximal speed (8‑12 seconds).
  • Walk or jog easy between reps for full recovery.
  • Do 4 reps—only when you’re fresh, not after fatigue.

Practical Tips

  • Begin with uphill strides to build solid form and reduce impact.
  • Newcomers should stick with a 3‑5% grade; switch to flat ground as you grow comfortable.
  • Always warm up before tackling hills or the track.
  • Don’t attempt these when already tired; you’ll raise your injury risk.
  • Work strides in at least every 2‑3 weeks, though plenty of runners fit them in 5 days weekly.
  • Adjust paces in the Pacing app to match your personal max speed or goal race pace.

Closing Note

Try them out—start on a gentle slope and progress from there. Tailor distances and paces in the Pacing app to fit your fitness, and you’ll watch your speed and confidence climb. Happy running! 🚀

References

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