400m is a common track running distance. On a standard outdoor running track, it is exactly once around the track in the inside lane. This is the longest distance that is usually run in lanes all the way round. A successful runner will need an efficient stride and superior speed, and a small amount of non-fast twitch muscles to be competitive. For career 400m runners this becomes a prolonged high speed sprint.
The current men's world record is held by Michael Johnson, with a time of 43.18 seconds. The world indoor record holder is Kerron Clement, in 44.57 seconds. The reigning Olympic champions are Jeremy Wariner and Tonique Williams-Darling.
Famous 400m runners
Men
Women