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Running Economy
Rating
Running economy is how much oxygen (and energy) is spent to maintain a given pace. A more economical runner uses less energy for the same speed.
In detail
Two runners with the same VO2max can show different results precisely because of different running economy — it depends on technique, stride length, tendon stiffness, even the weight of the shoes. Unlike VO2max, running economy continues to improve over years of regular training even in experienced athletes whose VO2max has already plateaued.
How to use it
Strength training for the legs (especially plyometrics) and a large volume of easy running are the two most reliable ways to improve running economy over time.