What Is a Middle Distance Runner?

A middle distance runner does the 800 m and 1500 m track events. This means that athletes run twice around a track to complete 800 m and three laps around to complete the 1500 m. Endurance is one of the key factors to middle distance running and therefore these runners train aerobically in order to acquire power in their sport and anaerobically to help their endurance.

  1. Physique

    • Middle distance runners are strong and muscular.

      As in all sports, there are certain types of physiques that lend themselves best to middle distance running. The typical middle distance runner is of average height, strong and muscular with very little body fat. Sprinters, on the other hand, use nearly all their muscles when sprinting but especially their large thigh muscles; and long-distance runners are extremely thin so that they carry as little weight as possible.

    Event Training

    • Stretching aids recovery.

      Since middle distance running events include 800 m and 1500 m events, their training includes a variety of activities. According to The Australian Institute of Sport, some athletes will work out once or twice a day, doing 4 to 12 kilometer track sessions of easy runs and tempo running. They may also include weight training for strength and yoga or pilates for stretching their muscles.

    Foods and Fatigue

    • Runners need to be well hydrated.

      Fatigue is something an athlete must contend with. It can occur because of excessive training or poor choice of nutrition. According to The Australian Institute of Sport, middle distance runners should ensure that their diets contain the appropriate amount of carbohydrates and iron and that they keep their bodies well hydrated. Sipping water or other fluids throughout the day is preferable to drinking large quantities during training or a race. This helps to counter fatigue.

    Supplements

    • Iron is often lost through sweating, menstruation, gastrointestinal bleeding due to severe training and damaged red cells due to any blood vessel injuries. Therefore, middle distance runners need to be checked by a sports doctor and nourish their bodies with iron-based foods such as leafy green vegetables or red meat. Middle distance runners, like many other runners, can also benefit from supplements and protein powders. However, good nutrition trumps everything as foods in their natural form are better absorbed by the body.