The Ivan Scale Of Perceived Suffering

This scale is a result of many runs and races where mental toughness was the greatest challenge. Scales of perceived exertion or perceived effort can be useful, but these do not apply well when the limiting factor is not how intensely you are exercising. This scale of is based on how much perceived suffering is experienced. On a 100 mile race, it is possible to have a low perceived effort, but undergo immense suffering.

1 Ivan Castro

I used the units of 'Ivan' after my one of my running heroes Ivan Castro. On many runs I have reached the point where I seriously consider quitting. At these times I often think of Ivan, his determination and spirit. Ivan is not superhuman; he is an ordinary man who refuses to quit.

2 Usage

The indications are suggested guidelines, and a workout meeting one criteria would use that level, e.g. nearly crying would define a run as '6 Ivan Run'.

3 The Ivan Scale

Ivan	Indications
1	Absence of any suffering
2	Normal workout. Minor discomfort and tiredness
3	Hard workout. Noticeable but familiar discomfort. Some tiredness and fatigue.
4	Very hard workout or race effort. Discomfort hard to ignore. Significant fatigue.
5	Extreme workout or hard race effort. Desire to cry. Doubt turning to fear. Feelings of inadequacy. Pain and exhaustion just bearable.
6	Bad workout or tough race. Nearly crying. Depression. Intense pain. Mild fear. Significant pain without expectation of lasting physical damage
7	Ugly workout or race. Crying alone. Depression. Moderate Fear. Intense pain with reasonable possibility of lasting physical damage.
8	Crying openly. Deep depression. Fear. Very intense pain. Expectation of lasting physical damage.
9	Clear evidence of lasting physical damage.
10	Unable to continue