Vertical Ascent Rate Calculator
Calculate your ascent speed in meters per hour.
What is Vertical Ascent Rate
The Vertical Ascent Rate (VAR) measures how quickly you gain elevation over time, expressed in meters per hour (m/h) or feet per hour (ft/h). It is a key performance indicator for trail runners, mountaineers, and cyclists who train on steep terrain.
By entering the total elevation gain and the time taken, this calculator helps you determine your ascent rate. Understanding your VAR allows you to compare your climbing efficiency across different workouts, track progress, and optimize pacing strategies for races or endurance challenges.
For example, a trail runner who climbs 600 meters in 1 hour has a VAR of 600 m/h. This metric can be used to estimate total climb potential within a given timeframe or compare efforts across different gradients.
Required Elevation Gain Calculator
Determine how much elevation gain is needed based on time available.
What is Required Elevation Gain
The Required Elevation Gain Calculator helps determine how much elevation you need to climb within a given time to maintain a specific Vertical Ascent Rate (VAR). This tool is useful for setting realistic climbing goals and pacing strategies during training or competitions.
By inputting your target VAR and the time available, you can calculate the elevation required to achieve that pace. This is particularly helpful for athletes training for hilly races, mountaineering expeditions, or cycling ascents where elevation gain plays a crucial role in performance.
For example, if you aim for a VAR of 500 m/h and have 2 hours available, you need to gain 1000 meters in that time. This allows you to structure your training sessions effectively and measure performance improvements over time.
