Game version
Pace-match pairs: run beside a partner and hold the same easy pace for a count of 60. Swap who sets the pace.
Pace Partner Pairs
Run side by side and try to match your partner's speed exactly.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Run beside a partner at easy pace.
Core: 60. Beat your own steadiest pace.
- Ages
- 7 and up
- Time
- 10 min
- Players
- You and a partner
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Partner, open grass
- Level · skill
- Beginner · Pacing
The steps
How it works
- Run beside a partner at easy pace.
- They speed up or slow down a little.
- Stay level with their shoulder.
- Swap leaders every 2 minutes.
Coaching point
Shoulder to shoulder.
Safety: Warm up first. Stop if a muscle feels tight or something hurts. Pain in one spot that gets worse each run, or a limp: stop and see a doctor.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a level: Less (30 counts), Core (60), More (90). Beat your own steadiest pace.
Story
You are a metronome keeping a steady beat on the trail.
My best
Beat your own count
Beat your own steadiest pace. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
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