Race pace refers to the speed at which an athlete aims to run or cycle during a competitive event. It is often determined by the athlete's training and previous performance, allowing them to maintain a consistent effort throughout the race. Knowing one's race pace helps in planning race strategies and managing energy levels effectively. Athletes typically calculate their race pace by considering their target finish time and the distance of the event. For example, a marathon runner might aim for a specific pace per mile to achieve their desired finish time. This concept is crucial for endurance sports, including running, cycling, and triathlons.