A Fartlek run is a Swedish word that literally means "speed play," and it's a type of workout that's kind of like a game of tag with yourself! You mix up fast and slow running based on how you feel or where you're running.

A Tempo run is like the Goldilocks of running workouts—not too fast, not too slow, but just right. Think of it as the pace where you’re comfortably uncomfortable, the sweet spot where you’re pushing yourself but not turning into a sweaty puddle.

An Easy run is exactly what it sounds like: a run that’s easy. Think of it as the “chill” day in your running routine, like going out for a jog while daydreaming about lunch or catching up on your favorite podcast. It’s the opposite of trying to break any speed records—this is your chance to enjoy moving without the stress of pace. If you can’t hold a semi-comfortable conversation with a buddy, back off the pace a bit.

A Hill run is basically the running world's version of a "Why did I sign up for this?" workout. It's when you purposely run up hills—yes, on purpose—to build strength and power. Think of it as a natural way to make your legs feel like they've been to the gym without touching a single weight.

A Threshold run is like flirting with your limits but never fully committing to them—just enough to keep things interesting. Imagine you're running, and there's this invisible "comfort zone" boundary. On a threshold run, you're constantly dancing right along that edge, pushing yourself without going all out. It’s like teasing your body: "I'm going fast, but not too fast. Just fast enough to make you sweat, but not fast enough to make you regret your life choices."