When you break the 800 meters down into its split times, the pace is close to that of the 400 meters, which itself is nearly a dead sprint. This combination of distance and speed makes the 800 meters a particularly painful event to run. Because you'll run most of the race in a pack instead of in your particular lane, strategy is also very important to success.
Instructions
1. Start the race strong by accelerating down the straight. Depending on the type of start the race has, you'll either break for the inside lane immediately or after the first 100 meters.
2. Break for the inside line (or "rail") at the designated time. Be careful not to run directly at it. Instead, run at a mild angle to the rail. This allows you to merge with the pack without losing speed.
3. Stay in lanes 2 or 3 during the first 300 to 400 meters of the race. If you're leading the pack, stay on the inside, but if you're not racing in either of these lanes prevents you from being "boxed in" by the other runners as the field strings out.
4. Stay alert during the race and keep an eye on the two lead runners. If one of them tries to pull away from the pack, adjust your pace accordingly.
5. Finish strong, but make sure it fits with your strengths as a runner. If you've got blazing speed, consider saving it for the final 100 meters. If you've got great endurance, start your finish early by boosting your pace in the last 300 meters. Either way, your finish should play to your strengths and your opponents' weaknesses.
Tags: first meters, your finish, your pace, your strengths