A few weeks ago I read a post on Yasso 800s by Run with Jess.  Basically you run 10 x 800m at a consistently hard pace to predict your marathon finish time.  i.e. If you’re able to run each of those 10 intervals in 4 minutes, you can run a 4 hour marathon (source: Run with Jess).  Interesting concept.  I read more about it here.  On Thursday I set out to the gym for these Yassos.  I managed to do four, each one in 4:30.  Hmm, does that mean I will be able to finish a marathon in 4:30 too?  Whoa!  Not so fast.  I need to be able to do 10 and not just 4.  On Thursday I will do 4 again and slowly build up so that I am doing 10.  According to Bart Yasso, my last 10 intervals should be about 2 weeks before the marathon.

Do you incorporate Yasso 800s in your training plan?  Was it accurate?

Run Happy!

1 Comment on Yasso 800s

  1. I think 800s are an EXCELLENT workout. I think they build mental and physical strength, and they can be a great addition when training for almost any distance. However, there are no other runners/coaches/experts that agree with the Yasso 800 theory. If you think about it, how in the HECK could half a mile predict 26.2. I have kids on my track team that could rip off 10 x 800s in the 2:30 range, but could never even finish a marathon. If someone is looking for a goal/prediction, I think the McMillan chart is better. Granted, I don't think it's 100% accurate, but better than the Yasso, in my opinion.

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