What type of training is often characterized by variable terrains and distances?

Fartlek training is a unique approach to endurance training that incorporates varying speeds and terrain types into workout sessions. It combines elements of both continuous and interval training, where the athlete runs at different paces and alters their route in response to the environment around them. This variability helps improve both aerobic and anaerobic endurance while also keeping the training interesting.

The essence of Fartlek, which is Swedish for "speed play," lies in its flexibility; athletes can adjust their intensity and pace based on how they feel or the challenges of the terrain, such as hills, flat areas, or uneven surfaces. This adaptability not only enhances physical conditioning but also prepares the athlete to handle diverse competitive conditions, making it particularly relevant for sports that involve varying landscapes or race courses.

In contrast, other forms of training, such as high-intensity interval training or continuous training, typically follow more structured formats without the added variability in terrain and intensity that Fartlek embodies.