800 Metres

The 800 metre race (or 800 metres) is a common track running event. It is the shortest common middle distance track event. The 800 metres is run over two laps of the track (400 metre track) and has always been an Olympic event. During indoor track season the event is usually run on a 200 metre track, therefore requiring four laps. 800 m is almost exactly half a mile.

The event combines aerobic endurance with anaerobic conditioning and sprint speed. Both the aerobic and anaerobic systems are being taxed to a high extent, thus the 800 metre athlete is required to combine training between both systems.