The basics
The Heptathlon consists of seven elements, in this order:
Day 1: 100m hurdles, high jump, shot put, 200m.
Day 2: long jump, javelin throw, 800m
Athletes receive points relative to their performance in each element, with these scores added up over the course of the competition to determine the final placings.
The rules for each element apply as normal, with the exception that in the long jump and throwing events athletes are permitted three attempts only.
Competition format
The competition referee presides over which heats or groups the athletes compete in for each element.
At the end of competition, if two athletes are tied, the athlete who has received more points in the greater number of events is the winner.
Find out more about the Heptathlon competition at the Olympic Games on the International Olympic Committee website.
