It’s often called the most grueling race by swimmers. Because it includes four lengths of each stroke and a constant shift in muscle groups, it can be the most difficult for many. To be successful, a swimmer must be well rounded and must have an all-around talent and strength not inherent in everyone.
For some, the 400 meter individual medley is a dreaded race. For others, it’s reviled as the most fun and challenging.
What is the 400 IM?
In Olympic competition, the 400 meter IM, includes eight lengths of the 50 meter pool. The race consists of two lengths of each stroke, beginning with butterfly, then backstroke, then breastroke, and ending with freestyle.
The 400 IM also can be contested in a 25-yard or 25-meter pool, often referred to as a short course pool. In these pools, the swimmer must complete four lengths of each stroke, in the same order as those listed above.
Other IM Events
At the Olympic level, the individual medley is also contested at the 200 meter distance, with swimmers completing one length of each stroke. This event, too, is contested in the short course pool, in which swimmers finish two lengths of each stroke to reach the 200 yard or meter distance.
The 100 yard or meter IM is generally swam only in short course pools and is usually only contested at age group swim meets. For this race, the swimmer must finish one length of each stroke, beginning with butterfly and ending with freestyle.
IM World Record Holders
During the past few years, 400 IM on the men’s side has largely been dominated by American Michael Phelps, who, as of Aug. 2011, was the world record holder in the event (4:03.84). As of the same date, American Ryan Lochte was the world record holder in the 200 IM (1:54.00).
On the women’s side, Stephanie Rice of Australia held both the 200 IM and 400 IM world records as of Aug. 2011. Rice’s world record times were 2:08.45 for the 200 IM and 4:29.45 for the 400 IM.