Pace Band Frequently Asked Questions

The algorithm utilized to determine the paces for each race has been created by applying the results of peer reviewed research on the effects of running on different grades, coupled with the extensive (and ongoing) analysis of thousands of mile-by-mile split times of various races. The application of this theoretical and practical research has enabled thousands of runners to keep on pace to reach their marathon goals.

Each pace band is made out of a waterproof, tear-resistant synthetic paper. Sweat-proof, spill-proof, and rain-proof. Each band is lightweight, weighing approximately 3 grams (or about 1/10th of an ounce).

The band is held securely together by a small, secure snap. The snap ensures that the band will stay on your wrist the entire race.

No. Unlike other bands on the market or most homemade varieties, there is no lamination, no tape, and no paper that will get ruined if it gets wet. The band is made out of synthetic waterproof paper and the ink soaks directly into the paper, so it will not run. It will stand up to rain, heavy sweat, and even wayward aid station cups.

Pace Band size is mainly a personal preference. Some people like it loose and some people find it more comfortable with a snugger fit.

Measure around your wrist and decide if you want a loose or snug fit. The band size is the actual circumference it will fit. For example, if you had a drinking glass that is 7" around (circumference), a 7" pace band will fit around it exactly.

One thing to keep in mind is that the snugger the fit, the more difficult it may be to rotate the band to see all the splits - especially when your wrist gets wet.

Yes. Use the Custom Half Marathon Pace Band to create your own paces.

There are three choices for shipping when checking out:

Standard: USPS First Class. Please allow 3-5 business days in most cases between your order date and race date. For example, if your race is on a Saturday, ordering by the previous Friday will ensure a timely delivery.

Expedited: USPS Priority Mail. In most cases, Priority Mail will arrive in 2-3 days.

Express: USPS Priority Express. Overnight shipping to most areas and 2 days to others.

International shipping is also available.

In some cases, delivery time may be reduced. If you are unsure if your band could be delivered in time, send an email inquiry to see what the estimated delivery date would be.

Many runners have the Pace Bands delivered to their race hotel. (However, delivery once received by the hotel is dependent on each hotel's handling of guest mail. It is best to contact the hotel about guest mail policies)

The specific course hill profiles and personal experience will dictate optimal Start and Pacing Strategies.

Race Day Strategies for Marathoners is an article by Pete Pfitzinger, two-time Olympic Marathoner, exercise physiologist, and author of the very popular book Advanced Marathoning detailing his advice for proper marathon pacing.

Also, in the article, Pace Yourself, coach and exercise physiologist, Greg McMillan and Ross Tucker, exercise physiologist at the University of Cape Town and Sports Science Institute of South Africa, outline methods for determining your goal marathon pace and in-race pacing strategies.

Start Strategies:


• Evenly Paced Start: Pace is not changed for the first few miles.


• Conservative Start: Slower than average pace during the first few miles as one eases into race pace.


• Very Conservative Start: Same as Conservative Start, but the first few miles are slower than those in the Conservative Start.

Pacing Strategies:


• Even Effort: This strategy uses the energy cost of the uphills and downhills of the course to approximate paces requiring even effort.


• Even Pace: All splits are equal. However, using a Conservative or Very Conservative Start Strategy will change the splits to incorporate the start change.


• Negative Split: First half Pace starts getting faster during the second half of the race. The uphills and downhills are still used to determine the initial paces before calculating the negative split.


• Aggressive Negative Split: Same as Negative Split, but paces drop more during the second half of the race.


• Positive Split: Pace starts getting slower during the second half of the race. Like with the Negative Split, the uphills and downhills are still used to determine the initial pace.


• Aggressive Positive Split: Same as Positive Split, but paces slow more during the second half of the race.

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