Interval training (medium): 8 x 400 (extensive)

Single run or in strength groups, with the pacemaker controlling the time

Exercise duration: 400 metres

Pause: 1-2 minutes (easy running)

Repeats: 8 times

Intensity level: 3 (medium)

Max HR: 80-90% (extensive interval method)

Rule of thumb: speak in full sentences

Both beginners and experienced runners benefit from the extensive interval method. Ideally, you should choose the extensive variant before the intensive interval units, but the runner should already have a good basic training programme. The breaks between the workouts are relatively short and the running pace is somewhat slower than during intensive interval training (80-90% HRmax). It is important that the heart rate does not fall below 120 beats per minute so that the body does not slow down too much. Extensive interval training takes place slightly below the anaerobic threshold and the aim is to increase aerobic performance (ideal training for longer competitions such as half marathons or marathons).

Interval training can be completed both on a track and off-road. The advantage of running on the track is that the runner always has control over the distance and the current running pace, which can promote the development of a sense of speed.

In interval training, it is important that the participants/groups try to cover roughly the same distance in the specified time for each interval or to complete a specified distance in roughly the same time. The various options for this type of training are as follows:

• Loop track: To ensure that the participants have enough space available for the run, they can be spread out on the loop track at the start. Using a stopwatch, each runner measures their own time for the specified distance. After the interval, the participants continue at a relaxed trot and start the next run after the break time has elapsed (variant: break on the spot). The participants moving at a relaxed trot must ensure that they do not hinder the runners who are in an exertion phase.
• Course: The defined course to be completed is marked. Participants start and stop their time independently (staggered start possible). The participants continue to move at a relaxed trot during the breaks, but make sure that they are back at one of the two possible starting positions at the end of the break time (variant: break in place). The sports leader defines the running routes for the outward and return routes to avoid collisions.
  Variant: it is also possible to complete a shorter route several times until the desired distance is reached. Here too, it is important to pay attention to the running directions so that there are no collisions. The breaks are carried out as described above, except that in this form the start/finish is always in the same place.
• Longer-distance circuit: A marker is placed on the course after every 400 metres (load) (e.g. balloon, route tape, wooden wedge). The participants keep moving after the interval (relaxed trotting), but make sure that they are back at the last marker at the end of the break time in order to start the next run. The participants who are in the recovery phase take care not to hinder the active runners. Ideally, the participants should be approximately back at the starting point after the last interval (8 intervals = 3.2 km running distance), otherwise additional teaching time must be taken into account for the return journey.

Distance markers (e.g. marker cones or route tape)

FTA evaluation (group formation)

Per participant:
1 heart rate monitor

Per participant/group:
1 stopwatch