I have recently PR'd in the 800m with a time of 2:01 and I have a PR of 4:30 for the mile and 9:49 for the two mile (both freshman year times, I was hurt last year so hardly raced). My distance coach splits us into either the 3200m group or 800m group as everyone does the mile. In the past I have ran in the 3200m group but with my new 800m PR I think it might make sense to switch to the more middle distance group. Anyone have any advice or past experiences you can share? Thanks so much
If you ran the 2:01 off of distance training, then I would definitely switch to mid distance training. If not, all of your times are pretty comparable, and I'd recommend staying in the distance group, because you'll just get better at distance with age.
Given your 800m time, I'd go with the 800m. Usually, you can multiply your 800m time by 2 to get your 1500m time. Yours looks like 4:11 which means you might be more suited for the 800m. I could be wrong but in any case, I'd prefer a shorter distance.
Assuming both groups have other reasonably talented/ dedicated runners I would stick with the distance group. It will be difficult to significantly improve current Prs in mile / two mile without some consistent distance training. At your age 800 time is mainly a function of natural leg speed and 800 racing experience. As you grow, you should continue to drop 800 time regardless of training focus as you get stronger and faster.
Unless you already have sub 52 sec 400 speed and can realistically attempt 1:55/1:56 I'd just keep training for distance and occasionally race the 800. If/ when you get down to 1:57 or plateau at mile/ two mile then you can think about switching up to md. Good luck -