Optimal pacing strategy is a big factor for success in middle and long distance running competitions. The purpose of this master's thesis was to explore the pacing characteristics of individual disciplines (800, 1500, 5000 and 10000 m) in achieving men's world records and in final performances in major competitions, such as the World Championships, Olympic Games and European Championships.
The first part of the master's thesis was a theoretical introduction, in which we reviewed and summarised the findings of previous research in this field. The second part was empirical and in it we analysed the pacing characteristics of world record performances and the results of individual competitors in major competitions. At the same time, we also wanted to find out whether the pacing characteristics differed between the two types of competitions. We concluded that pacing characteristics differed between disciplines and that the pacing characteristics of individual disciplines differed depending on the type of competition. Comparison of the relative speeds of world record holders with winners of major competitions showed that the latter did not always use the theoretically optimal pacing strategy, but adapted it dynamically to the environmental factors with the aim of achieving the highest ranking. We found statistically significant correlations between 800, 1500 and 10000 m results from major competitions and season best times. We also found that 800 m season best times had significant correlation with 400 m personal best times.
Our findings could be useful both for athletic coaches and other practitioners, as well as in academia for a better understanding of the importance of pacing in middle and long distance running.
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