Eli5: in track running (800 m, for example), how isn’t the runner on the outer lane in a disadvantage? I know that the starting position is compensated, but…

Question

…but at one point, all runners get together on the inner lane, which means that the outside runner needs to add the width of the track to their total distance, right?

In: 0

Answer 1

The lanes run an equal distance but the inner lanes have a greater view of the other runners so they can match speeds or decide to go to the front easier without over exerting themselves.