Truly on the borderline between middle and longer distances the 3000m (7.5 laps) is a race that requires decent speed, but a lack of natural quickness can be made up for with superior aerobic conditioning and supporting race tactics.
The 5000m includes 12.5 laps of the track.
Although this discipline has more of the character of a middle distance, speed is as important a component as in any race.
The training for 5000m is similar to the 1500m with many 5000m athletes competing regularly in the 1500m, but the combination of 5000m and 10000m is preferred more by athletes.
The 10000m is a highly tactical race that entails following the pack for the first 8000m to 9000m.
Invariably athletes leave it to the last lap before they start positioning themselves for the finish.