Often when we go to the gym, we are unsure of how fast we are supposed to run in order to get the most out of workout. However, a recent journal article by Karen Streudel-Numbers posted in the Journal of Human Evolution suggests that we all have individual optimal paces that are best for us to exercise at. At this particular pace we can cover the greatest amount of distance with the least amount of energy. For the study, nine participants ran on a treadmill at six different speeds. Researchers measured each participant's metabolic rate at every speed, using a device that provided a breath-by-breath analysis of oxygen consumed and carbon dioxide produced. The optimal speed for most women is 6.5 miles per hour or a 9 minute mile, while for men it was 8.3 miles per hour or a 7 minute mile. Any speed lower than 4.5 miles per hour is not metabollically efficient because either walking fast or running slow can be physically awkward. This study concludes that men are more efficient runners than women because they tend to be longer limbed which is better suited for running. However, keep in mind that we should not all jump out and start running at high speeds. Work up to the exercise, or else this could lead to injury and incredible muscle fatigue.
wow, this is a really interesting study
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