Our Methodology
Our pacing recommendations are customized for each marathon’s unique course—including elevation changes, turns, water and electrolyte stations—and your selected pacing strategy. If no strategy is chosen, we default to a steady-effort pacing plan.
Step 1: Effort-Based Course Analysis
We analyze the course using an effort-based adjustment index called GNR-GAP. This helps estimate how much extra effort each 5km segment will require based on elevation, turns, and other factors.
Step 2: Time Allocation per Split
Effort multipliers are used to determine time targets for each 5km segment, adjusting pacing based on difficulty, not just distance.
Step 3: Real-World Adjustment
Predicted split times are compared with data from tens of thousands of marathon finishers to ensure realism.
Step 4: Combining Models
Effort-based predictions and real-world pacing data are combined, with effort-based weighting prioritized, to create final split targets.
Step 5: Pacing Strategies
Seven pacing strategies allow runners to multiply goal time by custom factors for each 5km split based on personal approach.
| Strategy | Description |
|---|---|
| Even-Effort | Goal time balanced evenly across all splits |
| Slight Positive Split | Slightly slower second half |
| Strong Positive Split | Significantly slower second half |
| Slight Negative Split | Slightly faster second half |
| Strong Negative Split | Significantly faster second half |
| Major Continuous Progressive | Gradually increases pace over course |
| Minor Continuous Progressive | Small progressive increase over course |
By combining effort-based analysis, real-world pacing data, and customizable strategies, we generate realistic and personalized split targets for your marathon.