800m pace?

Question

I'm an 800m runner, and I want to know the best pace for this race. Is it better to go SLIGHTLY slower and sprint the last 80m, or go SLIGHTLY faster but not sprint at the end?

I usually sprint at the end and win, but I'm just wondering if I can improve my time but altering my pace.

Answer 1

Unless you're an Olympic-trials level 800m runner, sprinting all out will only hurt you.  You will either use too much energy early on or be saving too much energy for the end.

USA Track & Field advises that an 800 meter race is the only race that should be positive split. This means that the first half should be faster than the second half. For example, if you are setting out to run 2:00.00, the pace should be something like 59 seconds for the first 400m and 61 seconds for the second 400m.

This is scientifically proven to be the fastest way to run the 800m.  Period.

Answer 2

Everyone paces oneself differently. If you're allowed to cut in right after the gun goes off, make sure you get a good start; don't let anyone elbow you in an attempt to push you back. If anything, elbow others:) Start out at a fast jog, and take it up a notch after the 200 mark. After your first 400, just hang in there; try not to slow down. When you come to your last straightaway, give it all you've got left. There's no one way to run for everybody; each person has his/her strengths and weaknesses. Try not to let yourself get psyched out. One saying I like to run through my head is "Pain is weakness leaving the body". It's a saying by the Marines, and it's great to think about when you're feeling mentally and/or physically exhausted during a race. Good luck!:)

Answer 3

the best thing to do is to sprint on the end.

it always works.

i tried running faster on beginning and i always had worst time for like 10 seconds.

[it because on the end you do all you can do, and don't have to race no more, and on the begging you run fast, you get tired and got to deal with it the rest of the race]

well hope that helps <3

Answer 4

The model is "Start Strong Finish Strong". The first hundred meter, sprint it. the rest of the way open your strides and breath through your mouth. when you have 100 meters left, sprint it.

Answer 5

It really depends on the person. Try out a different way in a time trial or a race that doesnt matter.