1500m

The 1500 metres, often written 1500 m, is a middle-distance track event run on a standard outdoor 400-metre track. The distance covers 3.75 laps and is sometimes referred to as the metric mile because it approaches the traditional mile in length. The event requires a balance of endurance, speed, and tactical awareness, with athletes capable of sustaining fast paces and finishing with a decisive kick.

In international competition, the 1500 metres has a long history. It was part of the Olympic program for men from 1896 and for women from 1976. The race is contested at the World Championships in Athletics and at major continental championships, as well as in many national and club meets. The event is a core component of middle-distance programs across genders and age groups.

World records: The men’s 1500 m world record is 3:26.00, set by Hicham El Guerrouj of Morocco on July 14, 1998, in Rome. The women’s 1500 m world record is 3:50.07, set by Genzebe Dibaba of Ethiopia on July 17, 2015, in Monaco. Indoor 1500 m races have separate record marks.

Tactics and training: 1500 m races typically combine controlled pacing with a strategic final phase, often decided by a late surge or sprint finish. Elite preparation emphasizes aerobic capacity, running economy, cadence, lactate tolerance, and racing psychology.