Distinguish fartlek from tempo training and give aquatic and track examples.

• A. Fartlek is unstructured speed play; tempo is sustained aerobic/threshold work. Aquatic example: alternating fast cruised efforts with easy swim; Track example: random surges within a steady tempo jog.
• B. Fartlek is a structured interval program; tempo is continuous long-distance work. Aquatic example: fixed distance repeats; Track example: precise pace intervals.
• C. Fartlek is used only on land; tempo is used only in water. Aquatic example: steady pace laps; Track example: equal-distance repeats.
• D. Fartlek and tempo are identical training methods with no differences.

Answer: (B)

Pacing structure is what this item tests: fartlek blends faster efforts with easier recovery within a single session in a planned, but not rigid, way, while tempo training sticks to a steady, sustained pace for a longer duration.

In aquatic training, a fartlek-style session can be shown through fixed distance repeats, where you cycle through segments of faster swimming and easier swimming within the same workout. On the track, you demonstrate the same idea with precise pace intervals, where you deliberately hit target speeds for short blocks and recover between them to maintain a controlled, structured pattern of effort.

Tempo work, by contrast, is continuous and steady, aiming to stay near the lactate threshold for a longer stretch, whether you’re swimming or running. This means maintaining one steady effort without deliberate surges or variable blocks, to develop endurance at that challenging-but-sustainable intensity.