Cadence
The rhythm of a repeated cyclic action, most often the number of steps per minute in running or pedal revolutions per minute in cycling.
Definition
Cadence is the frequency of a repeating movement, expressed as cycles per minute. It is one of the two levers, alongside stride or gear length, that together determine speed: a runner's pace is cadence multiplied by stride length, and a cyclist's speed is cadence multiplied by the distance covered per pedal stroke.
Because it is easy to measure, cadence is widely tracked in endurance sport, though there is no single correct number; efficient values depend on the athlete, the terrain and the event. Adjusting cadence changes how forces are applied and how long each ground contact or pedal stroke lasts.
Meaning by sport
This term is used differently across sports:
- Running
- The number of steps taken per minute counting both feet, a key running-form metric.
- Cycling
- Pedal revolutions per minute (rpm), reflecting how fast the cranks turn for a given gear.
- Swimming
- Stroke rate, the number of arm strokes taken per minute.
Where you’ll hear “cadence”
Sports that use this term:
Running
The most accessible endurance sport — no venue, just shoes and the open road or trail.
Cycling
A low-impact endurance sport that doubles as transport, exercise and adventure.
Swimming
A full-body, low-impact endurance sport suitable for almost every age and ability.
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How this page is maintained
- Content type
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- Provenance
- Tier A — evergreen educational
- Verified external sources
- 0
- Content updated
- 2026-09-01
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