If you’ve ever seen terms like BQ, LR, or FTK in running forums and thought, “What does that even mean?”—you’re not alone. The running world is full of acronyms that can leave beginners (and even seasoned runners) scratching their heads.
In this guide, we’ll decode the most common running acronyms, so you can:
✔ Understand training plans like a pro
✔ Chat confidently with fellow runners
✔ Know exactly what race goals like “BQ” mean
Let’s dive in!
Why Do Runners Use So Many Acronyms?
Running lingo is packed with abbreviations because:
✅ It’s faster to say “LR” than “long run” mid-conversation.
✅ Training plans use acronyms for simplicity.
✅ Racing terms (like BQ) have become badges of honor.
Essential Running Acronyms Every Runner Should Know
1. LR – Long Run 🏃♂️
- What it means: The longest run of the week, crucial for endurance.
- Example: “My LR this weekend is 16 miles for marathon training.”
2. BQ – Boston Qualifier 🏅
- What it means: The time standard needed to enter the Boston Marathon (a dream for many runners).
- Example: “She just BQ’d with a 3:30 marathon!”
3. FTK – For the Kill/Kudos 🔥
- What it means: A motivational phrase meaning either:
- “For the Kill” (pushing hard at the end of a race).
- “For the Kudos” (running for recognition or bragging rights).
- Example: “Sprinted the last mile FTK!”
4. MT – Marathon Training / Mountain Trail ⛰️
- What it means:
- Marathon Training (a training block for 26.2 miles).
- Mountain Trail (for trail runners).
- Example: “In MT mode for 18 weeks!”
5. PR/PB – Personal Record / Personal Best 🎯
- What it means: Your fastest time at a given distance.
- Example: “Just set a 5K PR of 21 minutes!”
6. HR – Heart Rate ❤️
- What it means: Used in HR training zones (like Zone 2 for easy runs).
- Example: “Keeping my HR low on this recovery run.”
7. LSD – Long Slow Distance 🐢
- What it means: A slow, endurance-building run (not the drug!).
- Example: *”Did a 10-mile LSD today at conversational pace.”*
8. DNF – Did Not Finish 😞
- What it means: When a runner doesn’t complete a race (due to injury, exhaustion, etc.).
- Example: “Had to DNF the ultra at mile 40.”
9. DNS – Did Not Start ❌
- What it means: Registered but didn’t run the race.
- Example: “Injured my knee, so DNS’d the half marathon.”
10. FKT – Fastest Known Time ⏱️
- What it means: The record time for a specific route/trail.
- Example: “She just set an FKT on the Appalachian Trail!”
Less Common (But Useful) Running Acronyms
| Acronym | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Tempo | Sustained hard effort | *”6-mile tempo at race pace.”* |
| ITB | Iliotibial Band | “Struggling with ITB pain.” |
| VO2 Max | Max oxygen uptake | “Intervals improve VO2 max.” |
| DOMS | Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness | “DOMS hit hard after that hill workout!” |
People Also Ask
1. What does LR stand for in running?
LR = Long Run (the longest weekly run in training).
2. What is a BQ in running?
BQ = Boston Qualifier (the marathon time needed to enter Boston Marathon).
3. What is the meaning of FTK in running?
FTK = For the Kill/Kudos (pushing hard at the end or running for recognition).
4. What does MT stand for in running?
MT = Marathon Training or Mountain Trail, depending on context.
Final Tip: How to Remember Running Acronyms
- Bookmark this guide for quick reference.
- Follow running forums (like r/running) to see acronyms in action.
- Ask! Most runners love explaining terms to newcomers.
Ready to Talk Like a Pro Runner?
Now that you’re fluent in running acronyms, you’ll never feel lost in a race briefing or training plan again.
Which acronym did you find most surprising? Drop it in the comments! 👇