Pyramidentraining (lang): 2-3-4-3-2

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

Pyramid training is a special type of interval training that can be run extensively (longer sections at a brisk pace) or intensively (shorter sections at a very fast pace). As the name suggests, the effort initially increases continuously (in the form of a staircase) and is then reduced again to the same extent. There is always a trotting break between the efforts, which is measured by the intensity of the effort. The units should be run so fast that an interval can just be added at the end (extensive) or another interval would no longer feel possible (intensive). It is important to concentrate on an optimal running technique, because as soon as you are no longer running "cleanly", you are travelling too fast. The individual intervals are run very quickly, but as evenly as possible (the shorter the effort, the higher the intensity and vice versa). For shorter workouts, you cannot rely completely on the heart rate for intensity levels, as the heart rate only adapts to the exertion with a slight delay at the start of the workout.

Running training with alternating effort and recovery:

1. 2 minutes of effort (intensity level: 4)
2. 3 minutes of effort (intensity level: 4)
3. 4 minutes of effort (intensity level: 3-4)
4. 3 minutes of effort (intensity level: 4)
5. 2 minutes of effort (intensity level: 4)

Pause: 1-2 minutes each time

Intensity level 3:
HFmax: 80-90%
Rule of speech: speak in complete sentences

Intensity level 4:
HFmax: 90-95%
Rule of speech: short exchange of words

The pyramid training can be carried out as follows:

• Round track: To ensure that the participants have enough space available for the run, they can be spread out on the round track at the start. The sports director has all participants in view and can therefore start or stop the intervals by signalling. The participants decide for themselves how to spend the breaks (e.g. on the spot, marching or at a relaxed trot).
• Distance of at least 1200 metres: Distances are marked with signs (every 25-50m). Each participant receives a stop/pulse watch, runs along the specified route for the duration of the respective exercise (observe the running directions as specified by the sports director so that the total length of the route is sufficient) and calculates the distance covered. It is possible for participants to start in stages, whereby the running routes must be determined in order to avoid collisions. If the course allows it, the sports director can give the start/stop signal for all participants (no staggering possible).
• Longer distance race: The distances are marked with signs (every 25-50m). Each participant receives a stop/pulse watch, runs the course independently and calculates the distance travelled (no staggered start of the participants necessary). During the breaks, participants wait in place or continue running at a relaxed trot until the break time has elapsed. After the last run, all runners return to the starting point, which takes additional time. Ideally, the running distance corresponds approximately to the distance that can be covered in the time available in order to generate as little additional displacement time as possible.

With the same duration of exertion, an attempt is made to ensure that the participants/groups also reach the same distance. However, there is very little time to calculate and record the distances, which makes it difficult to compare runs of the same duration in practice.

Distance markers (signs with metres)
1 signalling instrument (e.g. whistle)

FTA evaluation (group formation)

Per participant:
1 heart rate monitor

For sports leader or per participant/group:
1 stopwatch