The 800m race is a middle-distance track event that requires both speed and endurance. It is a challenging event that tests the athlete’s physical fitness and mental toughness. The race is run in lanes for the first 100m, and then the runners break out into the middle of the track to complete the remaining 700m. The average time to run 800m varies depending on age, gender, and ability.
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Average Time to Run 800m by Age and Ability
The average time to run 800m is 2:20 to 2:50 for varsity athletes, while elite runners can finish the race in under 2 minutes for men and 2:10 for women. The table shows that the average time for all age groups is 2:45, with the best performance typically achieved in the late teens and early 20s.
However, it is essential to note that the data is not absolute, and there are always outliers who can run much faster or slower than the average time.
Data Table
Running the 800m requires both speed and endurance. The average time to run 800m varies greatly depending on age and ability. Below is a data table that shows the average times for different age groups and abilities:
| Age Group | Ability Level | Average Time (minutes:seconds) |
|---|---|---|
| Under 18 | Beginner | 3:00 – 3:30 |
| Intermediate | 2:30 – 3:00 | |
| Advanced | 2:00 – 2:30 | |
| 18-40 | Beginner | 2:30 – 3:00 |
| Intermediate | 2:00 – 2:30 | |
| Advanced | 1:45 – 2:00 | |
| 40-60 | Beginner | 3:00 – 3:30 |
| Intermediate | 2:30 – 3:00 | |
| Advanced | 2:00 – 2:30 | |
| Over 60 | Beginner | 3:30 – 4:00 |
| Intermediate | 3:00 – 3:30 | |
| Advanced | 2:30 – 3:00 |
Check out my complete data list of all track running distances and the most popular running distances by age, gender and ability, average running times the complete guide.
Analysis
As seen in the data table, the average time to run 800m varies greatly depending on age and ability level. For those under 18, the average time for a beginner is around 3:00-3:30, while an advanced runner can complete the distance in 2:00-2:30. For those in the 18-40 age group, the average time for a beginner is around 2:30-3:00, while an advanced runner can complete the distance in 1:45-2:00.
It is important to note that these are just averages and that individual times can vary greatly. Factors such as training, genetics, and overall health can all play a role in an individual’s ability to run the 800m.
Regardless of age and ability level, those looking to improve their 800m time should focus on building both speed and endurance through a combination of interval training, tempo runs, and long runs.
World Record 800m Run Times for Men and Women
The 800m race is one of the most exciting middle-distance events in athletics. It requires a combination of speed, endurance, and tactical awareness. The world record for the men’s 800m was set by David Rudisha of Kenya in 2012 with a time of 1:40.91.
Rudisha’s time broke the previous world record set by Wilson Kipketer of Denmark in 1997. Kipketer’s time was 1:41.11. On the women’s side, the world record for the 800m was set by Jarmila Kratochvílová of Czechoslovakia in 1983 with a time of 1:53.28. Kratochvílová’s time still stands as the world record today, almost 40 years later.
Over the years, many talented athletes have come close to breaking these world records, but they still stand as a testament to the incredible speed and endurance required to compete at the highest level in the 800m race.
Here is a table showing the progression of the men’s world record in the 800m race over the years:
| Year | Athlete | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1912 | Ted Meredith (USA) | 1:51.9 |
| 1932 | Tom Hampson (GBR) | 1:49.7 |
| 1962 | Peter Snell (NZL) | 1:44.3 |
| 1972 | Dave Wottle (USA) | 1:44.3 |
| 1976 | Alberto Juantorena (CUB) | 1:43.50 |
| 1981 | Sebastian Coe (GBR) | 1:42.33 |
| 1997 | Wilson Kipketer (DEN) | 1:41.11 |
| 2010 | David Rudisha (KEN) | 1:41.09 |
| 2012 | David Rudisha (KEN) | 1:40.91 |
And here is a table showing the progression of the women’s world record in the 800m race over the years:
| Year | Athlete | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1922 | Lina Radke (GER) | 2:16.8 |
| 1928 | Lina Radke (GER) | 2:16.2 |
| 1960 | Larisa Shepitko (URS) | 2:08.6 |
| 1964 | Ann Packer (GBR) | 2:01.1 |
| 1976 | Tatyana Kazankina (URS) | 1:54.94 |
| 1980 | Nadezhda Olizarenko (URS) | 1:53.43 |
| 198 |
Average Time to Run 800 Meters in High School
In high school, the 800-meter race is a popular event that requires both speed and endurance. The average time to run 800 meters in high school varies based on gender, age, and experience. According to RunnerClick, a typical time to run an 800 is around 2:30.
However, an average varsity time for 800m in track is anywhere between 2:20 to 2:50. The Advanced High School 800m Race article on NFHS suggests that the ideal time for boys to complete the 800m race is around 2:00 to 2:10, while for girls, it’s around 2:20 to 2:30.
However, these are just general guidelines and not a hard and fast rule. It’s important to note that the average time to run 800 meters in high school can vary significantly based on the level of competition.
For instance, a runner who competes at the state level may have a much faster time than someone who only competes at the district level.
Additionally, factors such as training, diet, and rest can also impact a runner’s performance. Below is a table that shows the average time to run 800 meters by age and ability level in high school:
| Age Group | Ability Level | Average Time |
|---|---|---|
| Freshmen | Novice | 2:40-3:00 |
| Intermediate | 2:20-2:40 | |
| Advanced | 2:10-2:20 | |
| Sophomores | Novice | 2:30-3:00 |
| Intermediate | 2:15-2:30 | |
| Advanced | 2:05-2:15 | |
| Juniors | Novice | 2:20-2:50 |
| Intermediate | 2:05-2:20 | |
| Advanced | 1:55-2:05 | |
| Seniors | Novice | 2:15-2:45 |
| Intermediate | 2:00-2:15 | |
| Advanced | 1:50-2:00 |
Note that these times are just averages and can vary based on individual performance. It’s important to set realistic goals and work towards improving one’s own personal best time.
Factors Affecting Average Time to Run 800m
Age
The average time to run 800m can vary depending on age. According to Track Spikes, an average time for an 800m run for a male in their 20s is 2:01.00, while for a female in their 20s, the average time is 2:19.00. However, as age increases, the average time can also increase. For males in their 40s, the average time is 2:22.00, while for females in their 40s, the average time is 2:48.00.
It’s important to note that these are just averages, and individual times can vary greatly depending on factors such as training, genetics, and overall health.
Ability
Another factor that can affect the average time to run 800m is ability. An experienced runner who has trained specifically for the 800m will typically have a faster time than someone who is new to running or has not trained specifically for this distance.
According to Runnin For Sweets, an average varsity time for 800m in track is anywhere between 2:20 to 2:50. However, many runners still finish 800 meters in upwards of 4 and 5 minutes. On the other hand, Track Spikes states that a good time for the 800m is anything under 2:00.00 for men and 2:10.00 for women.
It’s important to remember that everyone’s ability and potential is different, and it’s important to focus on personal improvement rather than comparing oneself to others.
Age and Ability Table
| Age Group | Male Average Time | Female Average Time |
|---|---|---|
| 20s | 2:01.00 | 2:19.00 |
| 30s | 2:15.00 | 2:34.00 |
| 40s | 2:22.00 | 2:48.00 |
| 50s | 2:33.00 | 3:08.00 |
| 60s+ | 2:57.00 | 3:48.00 |
Training Tips to Improve 800m Time
Improving 800m time requires a combination of speed, endurance, and technique. Here are some training tips to help runners improve their 800m time:
- Incorporate speed workouts: To improve speed, runners should include interval training, such as 200m and 400m repeats, in their training plan. These workouts help to improve anaerobic capacity and increase leg turnover.
- Build endurance: Endurance is also important for the 800m. Runners should include tempo runs and longer distance runs in their training plan to build aerobic capacity.
- Practice good form: Proper running form can help runners conserve energy and improve efficiency. Focus on maintaining a tall posture, driving the arms, and landing midfoot.
- Incorporate strength training: Strength training can help runners improve power and prevent injury. Exercises such as squats, lunges, and plyometrics can be beneficial.
- Rest and recovery: Adequate rest and recovery are essential for improving performance. Runners should include rest days in their training plan and prioritize getting enough sleep and proper nutrition.
It’s important to note that training should be tailored to each individual’s abilities and goals. Consulting with a coach or trainer can help runners create a personalized training plan that is specific to their needs.
Below is a table that shows average 800m times by age and ability level. This can serve as a benchmark for runners looking to improve their time:
| Age Group | Poor | Below Average | Average | Above Average | Good | Excellent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13-14 | 3:05+ | 2:45-3:05 | 2:30-2:45 | 2:18-2:30 | 2:05-2:18 | 2:00 or less |
| 15-16 | 3:00+ | 2:40-3:00 | 2:25-2:40 | 2:12-2:25 | 1:58-2:12 | 1:55 or less |
| 17-18 | 2:55+ | 2:35-2:55 | 2:20-2:35 | 2:08-2:20 | 1:54-2:08 | 1:50 or less |
| 19-22 | 2:50+ | 2:30-2:50 | 2:15-2:30 | 2:03-2:15 | 1:50-2:03 | 1:47 or less |
| 23-29 | 2:55+ | 2:25-2:55 | 2:10-2:25 | 1:58-2:10 | 1:45-1:58 | 1:42 or less |
| 30-39 | 3:00+ | 2:30-3:00 | 2:15-2:30 | 2:03-2:15 | 1:50-2:03 | 1:47 or less |
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Average Time to Run 800m Summary
Overall, the average time to run 800m varies greatly depending on age, gender, ability, and training. For males, the average time to run 800m is around 2:30-3:30, while for females it is around 3:00-4:00. However, these times can vary greatly depending on individual factors.
For beginners, the average time to run 800m is around 4:00-5:00, while for intermediate runners it is around 3:30-4:00. Advanced runners can complete the 800m in under 3:00.
It is important to note that these times are just averages and should not be used as a benchmark for success. Each individual’s journey and progress is unique and should be celebrated regardless of their time.
It is also important to remember that proper training, nutrition, and rest are crucial for improving 800m times. By incorporating interval training, strength training, and proper recovery methods, individuals can work towards improving their 800m time and overall running performance.
Ultimately, the average time to run 800m is just a starting point for individuals looking to improve their running abilities. With dedication, hard work, and proper training, anyone can work towards achieving their running goals.