Pacing and packing in elite half marathons

What is it about?

Most runners in half marathon races tend to start quickly and then slow after the first 5 km, although those who eventually finish in the top positions have more even paces. Sticking with a pack of athletes of similar ability lends itself to more even pacing and better sprint finishes.

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Why is it important?

This is one of the first studies to look at the importance of pack running in distance events and showed that sticking together is beneficial if the athletes are of roughly the same ability and have the same ambitions. Conversely, not running in a pack or joining the wrong pack can have negative outcomes.