The strategic distribution of energy and effort throughout an athletic performance to optimize results. It involves controlling speed, intensity, or exertion level to avoid early fatigue while maintaining the ability to finish strong.
From Latin 'passus' meaning 'step' or 'pace,' originally referring to a unit of measurement based on stride length. The athletic meaning evolved in the 19th century as endurance sports became more strategic and scientific.
Elite marathoners can maintain their target pace within just 2-3 seconds per mile for the entire 26.2-mile distance, demonstrating an almost supernatural internal clock. This precision comes from years of training their 'pace sense' - a neurological adaptation that allows athletes to feel their exact speed without looking at a watch!
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