negative split

Beginner ⚽ Sports / Fitness

Definition

Completing the second half of a race or workout faster than the first half. The pacing strategy that separates the disciplined from the over-enthusiastic who died at mile 2.

Example Usage

I finally managed a negative split in my half marathon, which required ignoring every instinct to sprint when the gun went off.

Origin

Common endurance racing terminology, emphasizing strategic pacing

Fun Fact

Nearly all world records in distance running are set with negative splits, proving that the tortoise-then-hare strategy actually works.

Source: Endurance sports and racing strategy terminology

Related Terms

Translate This Term

See “negative split” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.

Try the Translator