Analysing an activity: splits, second half, evenness and what the coach concludes

The three readings of a race

The first kilometre against the average: more than 10 seconds faster is a too-fast start, and the coach says so first. The second half against the first: a negative split, faster second half, is the sign of a well-managed race. Evenness: the standard deviation of kilometre times, excluding elevation.

These three readings are enough to explain 90% of missed times. The coach gives them in that order, after congratulating you.

For a training session

The coach compares each block with its target: pace held, average heart rate of the block, and evolution from one block to the next. Three threshold blocks at 4:25, 4:30 and 4:40 say the first was too fast, not that the last was weak.

It also looks at heart rate during recoveries: if it does not drop below 70% between two repeats, the recovery was too short or fatigue too present.

What it ignores

Calories, advanced "running dynamics", the watch's estimated VO2 max, Garmin's suggested recovery time. These numbers change no training decision. The coach sticks to pace, heart rate, cadence when useful, and elevation.

• — Race: first km, second half, evenness.
• — Session: pace and HR per block, recovery HR.
• — Ignored: calories, estimated VO2 max, Garmin recovery time.

You can ask for any activity by its date: "how did my Sunday run go?". The coach finds it and reads it.

Frequently asked questions