Critical Velocity Running Calculator

Critical Velocity Formula:

\[ CV = \frac{D_{long} - D_{short}}{T_{long} - T_{short}} \]

Long Distance (D_long):

meters

Short Distance (D_short):

meters

Long Time (T_long):

seconds

Short Time (T_short):

seconds

Critical Velocity (CV):

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1. What is Critical Velocity in Running?

Definition: Critical Velocity (CV) is the running speed that can be maintained for a prolonged period without exhaustion, representing the boundary between aerobic and anaerobic running.

Purpose: It helps runners and coaches determine optimal training paces and predict race performance across different distances.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ CV = \frac{D_{long} - D_{short}}{T_{long} - T_{short}} \]

Where:

\( CV \) — Critical velocity (meters/second)
\( D_{long} \) — Long distance (meters)
\( D_{short} \) — Short distance (meters)
\( T_{long} \) — Time for long distance (seconds)
\( T_{short} \) — Time for short distance (seconds)

Explanation: The formula calculates the slope between two distance-time points, representing the sustainable running velocity.

3. Importance of Critical Velocity

Details: CV is a key metric for endurance athletes as it:

Helps determine optimal training intensities
Predicts performance in middle and long-distance races
Provides insight into aerobic capacity
Helps track fitness progress over time

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

Enter two different race distances and your times for those distances
Distances should be significantly different (e.g., 1500m and 5000m)
Times must be in seconds
The long distance must be greater than the short distance
The time difference cannot be zero

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What distances should I use for calculation?
A: Use two recent race performances with significantly different distances (e.g., 3k and 10k).

Q2: How accurate is critical velocity?
A: CV is a good predictor for races between the two test distances but may be less accurate for much shorter or longer distances.

Q3: Can I use training times instead of race times?
A: Race times are preferred as they represent maximal effort, but hard training efforts can be used if race data isn't available.

Q4: How often should I recalculate my CV?
A: Recalculate every 4-6 weeks or after significant races to track progress.

Q5: What's a good critical velocity value?
A: Values vary by fitness level. Elite distance runners typically have CV > 6.0 m/s, while recreational runners may range 3.0-5.0 m/s.