Pace Poker

Workout - Pace Poker

• 10min @ 6'15''/km
• 4 lots of:
  • 1.6km @ 5'18''/km
• 7min @ 7'00''/km

Ready to start training?

If you already having the Pacing app, click try to import this workout:

Try in App Now

workout/pace-poker-393305bb

Don’t have the app? Copy the reference above,
to import the workout after you install it.

Intro

Here’s a breakdown of “3 Unique Run Workouts to Keep Running Fun!” from StrengthRunning. The video covers three workouts worth exploring — we’ll walk through each one so you can incorporate them into your training right away. Check out the full video for additional context and coaching tips.

Key Points

• Pace Poker develops your ability to sense and maintain a steady easy pace without constantly checking your watch.
• Barefoot Stride Circuit strengthens your feet and lower legs, improves your running mechanics, and brings a playful element to easy run days.
• Technical Trail Run trades outright speed for terrain, includes power-hiking sections, and offers a social, exploratory way to train.
• All three work well done with running partners, which helps keep training engaging and accountable.

Workout Example

1️⃣ Pace Poker (4‑5 mi easy run)

1. Select a ~1 mi loop you can repeat.
2. Run the first mile at an easy, comfortable effort and record your average pace (say, 8:30 min/mi).
3. Complete 3‑4 additional laps without checking your watch, attempting to match that pace on feel alone.
4. Doing the loop repeatedly trains your body’s natural pace-sensing ability.

2️⃣ Barefoot Stride Circuit (after a 3‑5 mi easy run)

1. Find a flat field or track with a designated long and short side.
2. Accelerate hard for ~2 seconds until you reach 95‑98% of your top speed, then let yourself slow down through the long side.
3. Walk barefoot across the short side for 60‑90 seconds as your recovery period.
4. Do 6‑8 rounds total.
5. Results: tougher feet, smoother running form, and sprint work without pounding.

3️⃣ Technical Trail Run (60‑90 min adventure)

1. Pick a trail with roots, rocks, and hills—something that demands your attention and shows off the landscape.
2. Run alongside friends at a conversational pace, switching between running and power-hiking as the terrain requires.
3. Prioritize the experience of moving through challenging ground rather than chasing a fast time.
4. Dial the length up or down based on your current fitness and energy.

Practical Tips

• Choose a looped course for Pace Poker where you can dial in feedback with a group.
• Select well-maintained grass or synthetic turf for barefoot strides to keep your feet protected.
• Treat the trail run as a low-pressure, exploratory session—it’s as much about the scenery and company as it is about work.
• Any of these can be modified in the Pacing app by setting your target pace or adjusting rep schemes.

Closing Note

Pick one of these three workouts and run it this week. You might dial in your intuitive pace feel, go barefoot in a field, or explore a technical trail with friends. Scale the distances and speeds to match where you are now, log the session, and watch your training feel fresher.

References

• 3 Unique Run Workouts to Keep Running Fun! - YouTube (YouTube Video)