fartlek

[ fahrt-lek ]

noun

1. a training technique, used especially among runners, consisting of bursts of intense effort loosely alternating with less strenuous activity.

fartlek

/ ˈfɑːtlɛk /

noun

1. sport another name for interval training

Word History and Origins

Origin of fartlek¹

1950–55; < Swedish fart speed + lek play

Word History and Origins

Origin of fartlek¹

Swedish, literally: speed play

Example Sentences

“It always feels like a fartlek out there,” Obiri said, referencing a training system for distance runners in which terrain and pace are varied in an effort to tamp down boredom.

From Seattle Times

The beauty of the fartlek is that, unlike in traditional high-intensity interval training workouts, walkers or runners don’t have to glue themselves to a watch or a fitness tracker to boost their muscular endurance.

From Seattle Times

It was Pappas’s second mistake of the night, leaving Wang the last speller standing, and “fartlek” as, technically, the championship word.

From Washington Post

Swedish for speed play, fartlek workouts involve picking a goal, such as a tree or light pole up ahead, and speeding up until you reach it.

From New York Times

To add intensity and keep it interesting, he suggests “fartlek” sessions.

From Washington Post