At the corner points of the route (the route symbolises a square number "8"; this results in 6 corner points, as the intersection/intersection point is not included), the participants spread out as individual runners or in small groups of 2-4 people. The running direction is the same for all participants and is predetermined (it may be necessary to change direction from time to time, e.g. after a complete lap). The runners at the corner points 1/4 start simultaneously to the next corner point, where a handover to the next runner/group takes place (in the case of group work, the start only takes place as soon as all previous runners have reached the corner point). Note: When meeting at the centre point, keep right of way. The figure-eight run is repeated as often as specified by the sports leader (1 lap = 6 intervals) before a slightly longer break is taken. The exercise form can then be repeated.
Variant:
Integrate additional tasks for the waiting runners at the corner points: e.g. push-ups, squats, trunk bends, jumps, etc.
Distance: 400m distance in the form of a square number "8" (approx. 50m per section)
Exercise duration: 6 x approx. 50m
Break: 1-3 minutes (easy run back to the starting point or wait in place)
Repeats: 2-10 times
Intensity level: 3 (medium) / 4 (hard)
Hmax: 80-90% (extensive interval method) / 90-95% (intensive interval method)
Rule of speech: speak in full sentences / short exchanges
Both beginners to running training and experienced runners will 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 aims to increase aerobic performance (ideal training for longer competitions such as half marathons or marathons). Intensive interval training is used by ambitious runners to work on their basic speed. The heart rate range is 90-95% of the maximum heart rate. The training takes place at or above the anaerobic threshold, i.e. in the "red zone". This requires the activation of fast-twitch muscle fibres and improves maximum oxygen uptake, lactate tolerance and pace hardness. The pace is fast (at competition speed or slightly below) and the breaks between efforts are longer than with the intensive form (suitable as training for shorter competitions such as 5km or 10km runs).
