Track- love it or hate it, it’s where race day success begins. Whether you’re running sprints, fartleks, or Yassos, your workout will be much more enjoyable if you and your fellow runners use some basic etiquette. This is especially true when the oval is crowded and paces vary greatly among everyone. So, let’s take a look at the rules of the track…
- Run Counter-Clockwise. Seems pretty obvious, right? Well, if you’re a new runner it may not be so. If you see a newbie running against the current, gently inform them of the norm.
- Different Lanes, Different Speeds. Treat the track like the highway…actually, since this is Austin, maybe some clarification is needed. The innermost lane (lane 1) should be reserved for the fastest runners, followed by slower runners in lane 2. Outside lanes (7 and 8) are reserved for walkers and warm-downs. Feel free to use these rules when driving on MoPac and IH35, as well.
- No Walking/Standing in Lanes 1 & 2. If the previous rule is followed, this shouldn’t be much of an issue. However, it can sometimes be easy to forget when walking with your buds between intervals. Remember that not everyone runs at the same pace, so others are most likely still running in the first two lanes.
- 2 at a time. Once everyone takes off for an interval and people begin to group by pace, it’s important to not become a giant running cluster impeding or bulldozing others as you make your loops. Keep it 2 runners wide on the track. Not only does this make for a safer environment, it makes passing easier. Speaking of…
- Pass To The Right. Ok, so this is where running on the track is not like driving on the highway (ahem…Austin drivers). As a courtesy to the person(s) you are passing, shout a polite “TRACK!” as you make your move. Ideally, passing is fairly easy if all of the previous rules of the track are being followed, leaving a lane wide open to stretch out your stride and do your best FloJo/Prefontaine.
- Use Caution When Stopping. When you’ve really pushed your pace and finished an interval, it can be pretty tempting to stop dead in the lane to catch your breath. Don’t. As you finish, run through the the line and veer off towards the outer lanes or infield. A quick peek over your shoulder to make sure you’re not veering off into someone is also a good idea.
- Turn Down The Jams. Pump it up…just not too loudly. It’s not that anyone is judging your running mix (yes they are); it’s just one more way to make the track safe. Lower the volume or wear only one earbud so you can easily hear other runners passing or approaching from behind.
That’s it. Pretty simple, right? Now that you’re more familiar with track etiquette, spread it!
Have other tips or comments? Share below.
