Running Power | What it is and why it matters

Running is a popular form of exercise for many athletes and fitness enthusiasts. It is a simple, yet effective way to improve cardiovascular health, endurance, and overall fitness. Recently, there has been a growing interest in measuring running power as a way to optimize training and performance. In this article, we will explore what running power is, why it matters, and how it can be measured.

Running power is a measure of the amount of work that is being done by the runner. It takes into account factors such as speed, incline, and wind resistance, and provides a more accurate representation of effort compared to metrics like heart rate or pace. Running power is measured in watts, which is a unit of power that represents the rate at which energy is being expended.

Why does running power matter? Simply put, running power provides a more precise measure of effort compared to other metrics. Heart rate, for example, can be affected by a number of external factors, such as stress, fatigue, and dehydration, which can make it difficult to accurately measure effort. Pace is also affected by external factors, such as terrain and wind resistance, which can make it difficult to maintain a consistent effort level. Running power, on the other hand, takes all of these factors into account, providing a more accurate measure of effort and allowing athletes to train and race more effectively.

There are several ways to measure running power, including using specialized running power meters, such as the Stryd, RunScribe, or Garmin Running Dynamics Pod. These devices attach to the shoe or chest strap and use a variety of sensors, including accelerometers and gyroscopes, to measure the runner's power output. The data can then be analyzed and used to adjust training and racing strategies.

Another way to measure running power is through estimating it based on heart rate or pace. Many athletes use heart rate monitors or GPS watches to track their workouts, and these devices can be used to estimate power output. This method is not as accurate as using a specialized power meter, but it can still provide useful information for athletes who are looking to optimize their training and racing.

In conclusion, running power is a useful metric that can help athletes optimize their training and performance. It provides a more accurate measure of effort compared to other metrics like heart rate or pace, and can be measured using specialized power meters or estimated using heart rate or pace data. By understanding their running power, athletes can adjust their training and racing strategies to improve their performance and achieve their goals.