‖ fartlek
(ˈfɑːtlɛk)
[Sw., f. fart speed + lek play.]
A method of training for middle- and long-distance running, in which the athlete runs over country, mixing fast with slow work.
| 1952 Scholastic Coach XXI. vii. 20 The answer that finally emerged was ‘fartlek’—the Swedish system of training. 1957 Duncan & Bone Oxf. Pkt. Bk. Athletic Training (ed. 2) iii. 23 Fartlek is a pleasant..form of wind sprints across country. Ibid., The essence of a successful fartlek session is enjoyment in hard but varying work. 1958 Times 18 Aug. 3/1 He was out training..and was using the Fartlek or run-as-you-please training which originated from Sweden in the early 1940s. 1968 B. Tulloh Tulloh on Running v. 46 Fartlek, meaning ‘speed play’..is a continuous run in which patches of fast striding are interspersed with jogging. |