Is it better to run at a steady pace or to make quick surges throughout a 5k meter race?

Answer 1

For distance running, try to master the art of running "negative splits", which means running the end of the race faster than the start. Let's say, for example, that you can click off a 6-minute mile at peak effort. You don't want to go out at that pace or you're likely to fade in the middle and struggle at the finish. Instead, go out at 6:30 or even 7:00 minutes pace. If the body is up to it, gradually accelerate throughout the race and finish at or above your maximum pace.

What this is going to do for you is ensure that you don't burn up half way through the race and have something left for the finish. It can be very difficult to sit back and control your pace early when you see people going out fast and leaving you behind. However, if you can master the technique, you'll find yourself passing those same people in the last mile because they went out too fast and ran out of steam.

The 5k distance is tricky, though. It's short enough that some top runners will go out fast and be able to hold that fast pace through the whole race. So, it's important to strike a balance. Early on, you want to hold back and run within your abilities, but you don't want to be overly cautious so that the competition gets too far out of reach. If you're running to win, you don't have to hang with the leaders but keep them in sight through the first half of the race. If you're just running to compete, pay no attention to the folks around you and run your own race. It always feels better, though, to drive across the finish line rather than stagger.

Good Luck!

Answer 2

It's better to keep a steady pace in order to keep from creating to much lactic acid (that heavy feeling you get in your legs). In a race you only have one or two big surges in you. Although with running a 5k those surges won't be to fast. The important thing is to have a realistic goal time and then work on hitting that pace throughout the race. Depending on the talent level of the competition will determine if your close to the front. The important thing is to not attempt to run faster than your capable early on the race. You want to be able to finish the race hard but not save to much. Just go out there and race and you will be alright...but no big surges alright unless its in the last 300m of the race

Answer 3

In long distance running you MUST have more than the reqd stamina to last....and then its a matter or pacing with the leader for most of the race. If you have the stamina and can surge forward anytime you feel like, it'll be the greatest asset you possess.
So in any race it's relativity and who is on track with you....for a start you MUST always be consistent and stay up front no less than 3....then use your skill espy during the second to third quarter of the race. If you feel confident just surge ahead and keep yourself at leader or 2nd at worst....then the last quarter if your stamina provides for you, go ahead, lead the pace and create a vacuum between yourself as No 1 and push No2 as far back as you can help....this way you increase your chances as champ!

Answer 4

If it is a race you have to run based on the competition. I ran 5K;s for 4 years and 8 K;s for 4 years. In 5 K's I would usually keep a steady pace but when I saw a chance to pass a runner I would speed up for a short period and pass him, then go back to my normal pace. Most runners will let you pass them, some will try and keep up which will only push you to run faster.

Answer 5

1. When the gun goes set a good pace at the front of the pack.

2. For the next 4k keep a steady and smooth pace.

3. In the last 500m pick up the pace, but don't push yourself to the limits.

4. In the last 100m sprint it out, using all you got left. Hopefully you do well.

*Remember to drink lots of fluid after your event and warm down to prevent any injuries.

Answer 6

In any race, be it the 5, 10K, half-marathon or even the full marathon, you start the race at a fast pace, keep a steady pace in the middle thereof, then make your quick surge in the last few kilometers.