Should I move up distance?

I would say those 800/1500 times are about equal--great times.

Simple--Do what you like more. If you like doing a lot more speed work then stick with the 800, but if you enjoy slogging out those miles, then go for it.

Based on your 400m time, you probably aren't going to improve your 800m time much unless you build some muscular strength.

If you moved up now, I would set a goal to run sub-3:50. Should be possible if you can get to running 75-80km/week with some longer intervals (600m+)

Your 800 is a bit better imo.

I think you should stick with 800 and try to focus on your speed some in the preseason. Also you may be faster in the 400 but just not used to running so hard for th e 400. Try going all out the first 100. As a 800 runner I knew that I could only run a fast 400 if I went balls to the wall the first 100.

Also why can't you do both? And in a way I agree with the other poster, do what you think ur bett e in and would enjoy more. You know deep down which answer you want to hear

You are going to need to do both again this year but maybe cut the open 400s and just run relays if you are on the 4 x 400 team.

As you crank up the 1500s, you need to run more. Not so much more in the winter, though another 10k-20k wouldn't hurt but if your 20k in June included warm ups and warm downs, that just isn't enough. Try to stay above 40k/wk.

How much extra mileage should I think about doing? My summer mileage was 20k a week including all running. What would a 1500m runner do in the summer and winter?

My guess is that 800m time would give a potential to run 3:42. In the 1980's, they used to say milers ran 50 miles a week. I also guess is you're in a tight spot. Your lack of endurance may make you more suitable for the 800m. But you're so close yet far enough from being world class in the 800m. I'd be tempted to try surges at the end of 200m or 300m intervals and see if you can improve your speed for the 800m. If you insist on the 1500m then maybe 80 minute long runs. (I don't consider myself the best at advice though, hehe.)

30 miles or 50km per week is plenty for a truly speed-based 800 guy.

But what this DOESN'T mean is that you train like a low-mileage 800-1500 guy. Because that guy will fail every time. A miler (or a miler's approach to the 800) needs 50 mpw MINIMUM to succeed.

What it DOES mean is you would train more like a long sprinter than a distance runner, especially in race season. A "tempo" for you will be not 45 minutes at half marathon pace, but 12x100 "fresh" with perfect form and jogging rest.

There are great threads on 400-800 training here.

612 wrote:

I would say those 800/1500 times are about equal--great times.

I would've thought his 800 is better.

If you have already focused on trying to improve your 400 time and you are still at 51, than yes you have maxed out. You should see your long term goal as the 1500m. That doesn't mean you don't ever run the 800 again, but a 1:47-1:48 is likely out of the question. In the 1500 you have a better opportunity (although your 400 time is still an issue at a national level).

Move up to the 1500. Double your 800 time to find your 1500 potential. Well trained 1500 runners can do this or better. 1:51+1:51= 3:42.

3:55 is solid if you've been training as an 800m runner. 51 speed isn't good enough to focus on the 800. 1:51 800 speed indicates sub 3:50 and potentially sub 3:40 since you're only running 51 in the 400.

There are plenty of 3:55 1500 runners that aren't capable of 1:51. And since you're only doing low mileage 800 training and ran the 1500 twice you have a HUGE UPSIDE in the 1500.

remember to keep an open mind. World class 5000/10000 runners can all break 1:50. Even marathoner Ryan Hall ran 1:51 in HIGH SCHOOL.

Another thing to consider is if you have coach who over emphasizes speed work. Too much speed work leads to injuries and doesn't develop your 1500 potential.

I have not done any specific 400m training or speed work to be honest. My 800m success has come purely from speed endurance workouts such as 200m/300m reps with short recovery and some easy running and cycling outside of track sessions. I didn't do any weight lifting either.

A question for everyone who has given some input so far, how would I train for both the 800m and the 1500m? I am unsure if I want to write off the 800m just yet lol.

Thanks