Do not use blocks when running 800m or farther. The starting position for longer races is covered later in this section.
If you like, you can jump, shake your legs, or prepare as you prefer before stepping onto the block.
Breathe in deep, calm breaths through your nose for as long as you can. Avoid short, sharp, shallow breathing as long as you can. [2] X Research source Find a stride that you can keep up comfortably for most of the race. [3] X Expert Source Kai NgCertified Running Coach Expert Interview. 12 February 2021. Get used to the rhythm of this stride, learning the pattern of your strides and breaths. [4] X Research source Set a goal for yourself before you attend the race, based on this pace.
If you think you have the capacity, you can try to push yourself slightly harder than your regular pace, to get your (slightly painful) “race pace. " It’s easy to burn out this way without practice, so don’t do this unless you’re feeling very comfortable.
If you’re competing in a large race, don’t worry about the people around you. They’re all working on their own goals, and what they do or think doesn’t affect your race.
