Race Comparator & Performance Analysis
Compare up to 3 races side by side with elevation-adjusted scoring. Understand your performance across different terrains and find equivalent flat race times.
Race 1
Marathon de Paris 2024
Performance Comparison
Performance
Pace
Understanding race performance comparison
Comparing races allows you to objectively assess your fitness across different race types and terrains. A trail race with significant elevation gain requires very different effort than a flat road marathon, even if the distances are similar. This tool helps you understand these differences by normalizing performances to a common scale.
How the elevation adjustment works
The elevation adjustment uses the ITRA (International Trail Running Association) methodology: approximately 60 seconds are added per 100 meters of elevation gain per kilometer. This allows meaningful comparison between flat and mountainous races.
| Factor | Typical impact | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Elevation gain | +60s per 100m D+/km | 2000m D+ on 50km → +24 min equivalent |
| Heat (>25°C) | +2–5% | Marathon 4h → 4h05-4h12 |
| Headwind | +3–8% | Semi 1h45 → 1h48-1h53 |
| Rain | +1–4% | Mainly via grip on trail |
| Cold (<5°C) | +1–3% | Muscles less efficient when cold |
Frequently asked questions
How reliable is the performance score?
The score provides a useful relative comparison between your own races. It accounts for distance, elevation, and conditions. However, technical difficulty, altitude, and individual strengths (climber vs flat runner) add nuance that no formula can fully capture.
Can I compare trail and road races?
Yes, that's the main purpose of this tool. By adjusting for elevation gain using ITRA methodology, the comparator produces a "flat equivalent" time that allows meaningful comparison between a hilly trail and a flat road race.
What's a good performance score?
The score is on a 0-100 scale where higher is better. Above 70 indicates strong performance for recreational runners. Above 80 is competitive level. Above 90 is approaching elite. The most valuable insight is comparing YOUR scores across races to see where you're strongest.
How does weather affect my race time?
Heat is the biggest factor: above 25°C, expect 2-5% slower times as your body diverts blood to cooling. Wind resistance adds 3-8% on exposed courses. Rain affects traction on trail (1-4% slower) but has less impact on road. Cold weather (below 5°C) reduces muscle efficiency by 1-3%.