How it works
The events occur across two days. Performances convert to points using event-specific formulas, and the athlete with the highest total wins.
What people often miss
Athletes compete against the scoring tables as well as each other. Finishing first in the most individual events does not automatically guarantee the overall title.
Why this question comes up
The decathlon rewards a rare blend of speed, strength, technique, endurance, and recovery.
Key points
- The outdoor men's decathlon combines 100 meters, long jump, shot put, high jump, 400 meters, hurdles, discus, pole vault, javelin, and 1,500 meters.
- The events occur across two days. Performances convert to points using event-specific formulas, and the athlete with the highest total wins.
- Athletes compete against the scoring tables as well as each other. Finishing first in the most individual events does not automatically guarantee the overall title.
Bottom line
The outdoor men's decathlon combines 100 meters, long jump, shot put, high jump, 400 meters, hurdles, discus, pole vault, javelin, and 1,500 meters.
Source and verification
This Answer was checked against World Athletics. Follow the source for the full official explanation and any later updates.