Grade Adjusted Pace

Enter the pace you actually ran and the grade, and get the flat-ground pace that represents the same effort.

Uses the Minetti et al. (2002) running energy-cost model. Most accurate for grades roughly between −30% and 30%; very steep or very short grades vary more with terrain and footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grade Adjusted Pace (GAP)? +

GAP converts the pace you actually ran on a hill into the flat-ground pace that represents the same physical effort, so you can compare hilly and flat running fairly.

Is downhill running always faster for the same effort? +

Only up to a point. Running downhill gets metabolically cheaper as the grade steepens, roughly down to somewhere around -15% to -20%, after which braking forces make it costlier again. This calculator's underlying model captures that curve rather than assuming downhill is always "free" speed.

How does this compare to the grade-adjusted pace on my GPS watch or Strava? +

Different platforms use different underlying models, so exact numbers can vary. This calculator uses a published exercise-science model (Minetti et al., 2002) rather than any specific watch or app's proprietary formula.

Does this account for altitude, heat, or surface like sand or mud? +

No, only grade/slope is modeled. Altitude, temperature, humidity, and surface conditions also affect effort but aren't included here.

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