Here is a glossary of terms related to running, cycling, swimming, etc., that you might hear from other members.
This page doesn’t even touch the surface with all the terms you may hear, but we’ll always try to update it with commonly used terms.
Stride Length
The distance covered with each step while running.
Cadence
The number of steps or strides taken per minute.
Pronation
The natural inward rolling of the foot while running.
Supination
The opposite of pronation, where the foot rolls outward.
Stitch
A sharp pain often felt in the side during a run, also called a side stitch.
Interval Training
Alternating between high-intensity running and rest periods.
Pace
The speed at which a runner runs, usually measured in minutes per mile or kilometer.
PR (Personal Record)
A runner’s best time for a specific distance.
Taper
The period of reduced training leading up to a race.
Warm-up
Gentle exercises done before running to prepare the muscles.
Cool Down
Gentle exercises done after running to help muscles recover.
Hydration Belt/Pack
A belt or pack with water bottles for staying hydrated on long runs.
Runner’s High
A feeling of euphoria during or after a run, often attributed to endorphin release.
Barefoot Running
Running without shoes or with minimal footwear.
Trail Running
Running on natural, unpaved surfaces like trails or dirt paths.
Cross-Training
Engaging in other types of exercise to improve running performance.
Hill Repeats
Running up and down a hill repeatedly for strength training.
VO2 Max
The maximum amount of oxygen a runner can use during intense exercise.
Overtraining
Excessive training without adequate rest and recovery.
Runner’s Knee
A common term for patellofemoral pain syndrome.
DNF (Did Not Finish)
Not completing a race or run for various reasons.
DNS (Did Not Start)
Registering for a race but not participating.
Splits
Timing and recording different segments of a run, often per mile or kilometre.
Shoe Drop
The height difference between the heel and forefoot in a running shoe.
