Legs won't move any faster???

Question

When I run the 400 and 800, I get to the point where my legs wont move any faster. I run a 53 second 400 and a 2:01 800. What are some things I can do to cut off time? I'm still getting in shape (I've only been training since February); however, regionals are coming up in 2 weeks. I need to run a 1:58.8 to make it to states. I've heard pumping your arms in an exaggerated fashion will increase leg turn over. Any other tips?

Answer 1

Push everything you have into that last 100. Its the most important but most difficult part of the race.  Drive your knees and pump your arms.  If your not in 1st place pretend like the person in 1st hit you and made you fall thats why your not in first lol I know it sounds crazy but trust me these things will work. Doing these things won't make you "faster" but they will help you "not die" at the end of the race.

Answer 2

if your legs won't work, use your arms. Swing your arms faster and that will make your legs move faster.

Answer 3

dude of course you cannot move any faster, 53 second 400 is very very good, if you really want results, you need to do sprints every single day for about 3-4 hours.

Answer 4

Shortening your stride the last 100m will quicken your step and help you move faster. If your legs feel dead around the last 200m try going out slower(for the 8 at least). Get some one to take your 200m splits, they should get faster. If your first 3 splits are wayyy fast and the last one is slower then you know you have to start slower and keep a steadier pace. This will help your legs from feeling like cement.  Just in general, keep your eyes up and focused on the finish line and run like you are chasing someone down or some one is right on your tail, even if they are not. Some people slow down when they get really close to the line, which is bad. Of you do this then imagine the line being 5 or 10m back and sprint over the line.