Hi JT--
Fartlek was a term coined by a Swedish running coach named Holmer.
Here is a pretty good definition:
"Fartlek, which means "speed play" in Swedish, is a form of conditioning which
puts stress mainly on the aerobic
energy system due to the continuous nature of the exercise. The
difference between this type of training and continuous training is
that the intensity or speed of the
exercise varies, meaning that aerobic and anaerobic
systems can be put under stress. Most fartlek sessions last a minimum
of 45 minutes and can vary from aerobic walking to anaerobic sprinting.
Fartlek training is generally associated with running, but can include
almost any kind of exercise."
It was designed for human runners, but is applied to horses, as well.
It is similar to but different from interval training. Hope this
helps. You and Steph are invited to dinner in the motorhome soon so we
can be debriefed about the WEC. I'll bring your favorite wine. Mad Dog
20/20, right? Bruce
