Athletics

Athletics is the most underrated stat in Kenshi. In a game where running away is a valid strategy, speed is survival.

What It Does

Athletics sets your running speed. A faster character escapes danger, outpaces patrols, and chooses which fights happen.

Hidden Effects

Speed is reduced by encumbrance — carrying too much weight slows you and starves Athletics XP. A light, fast character controls the entire pace of the game.

How XP Works

Athletics trains simply by running, and trains faster while carrying weight (such as a body or heavy pack), since the character is "working" against load.

Best Training Methods

Travel everywhere on foot, and carry a knocked-out body or full pack while doing it to accelerate gains. Long marches double as free training.

Common Mistakes

Ignoring Athletics until something faster than you is chasing your squad. Train it early — slow characters die to things they could have outrun.