Elise is a running coach with several clients training for a marathon, a race that is about 26.2 miles long.

Which equation could Elise use to help her clients set pacing goals for the race?
In the equation you chose, what are appropriate definitions for the variables r and t?

1 answer

To help her clients set pacing goals for a marathon, Elise can use the following equation:

\[ d = r \times t \]

Here:

  • \(d\) represents the total distance of the marathon, which is approximately 26.2 miles.
  • \(r\) represents the average pace per mile (in minutes per mile).
  • \(t\) represents the total time to complete the race (in minutes).

Using this equation, clients can solve for their target pace (\(r\)) or their total time (\(t\)) based on their training goals. For example, if a client has a target time to finish the marathon, they can rearrange the equation to find the required pace:

\[ r = \frac{d}{t} \]

Alternatively, if they have a desired pace, they can find out how long it will take them to complete the marathon:

\[ t = \frac{d}{r} \]

This way, Elise can assist her clients in setting realistic pacing goals for their marathon training and races.