Negative Splitting 800s how do Distance guys pace them?

Go out and die (a little). The most efficient way to race an 8 is to run the first lap around 2 seconds faster than the second. I'd say you could run a 1:57 if you pace it right, maybe faster, so go out in 57 and try to close in 59.

on wrote:

Im not a an 800m runner But my coach has been placing me in a bunch on weeks i dont steeple . And i just need some advice on a good way for a distance runner to run an 800. Yesterday I ran 1:59.1 . but I split 62-57. I wasn't very tired either but the problem ive been facing Is I just dont have the ability to start as fast as middle distance runners and I get stuck in last. yesterday I was forced to have to pass 13 guys in 400m. Ive NEVER ever been someone to race from the front in any race but is it always better to run an 800 to die? I always feel like I have alot left but I just dont know where to use it. so I try going out in a 57? how do distance guys run 800s?

maybe you should just stop running like a little bitch.

No Negative Splits wrote:

Go out and die (a little). The most efficient way to race an 8 is to run the first lap around 2 seconds faster than the second. I'd say you could run a 1:57 if you pace it right, maybe faster, so go out in 57 and try to close in 59.

I second this, I run the mile/2 mile normally, but run the 800 as part of the 4x8, and I usually go out in 59/60 and close in 62/63

No Negative Splits wrote:

The most efficient way to race an 8 is to run the first lap around 2 seconds faster than the second.

No it's not. Most common maybe, but not most efficient.

The thing is that distance runners (3k up) don't normally run at 800 speeds.

You are much more comfortable running 60-64 laps. Then you still feel strong and sprint and go faster the second lap.

Depending on who you run against, and what your goals in this race are, there is nothing wrong with that.

If you want to get good at the 800, you have to convince yourself to lay down that 55, and then rely on your strength to hold a good pace.

The more often you do this, the faster the first lap becomes, the easier(a little) it becomes, and the stronger you are in the second 400.

Can't believe I'm having to agree with a guy named "Spoogeguzzler"