SDTC's Guide to Safe and Fun Track Workouts
San Diego Track Club is grateful to have access to a track for our weekly workouts. As guests, being respectful of the school, campus and our fellow athletes is key. Whether you're a first-timer or need a refresh, check out SDTC's essential track tips below:
- Respect team practices. We often share space with teams or groups practicing on the field. Be considerate of their workout and avoid disrupting their training.
- Run counterclockwise. Counterclockwise is the universal standard for track workouts, so always keep the inside of the track to your left. NOTE: SDTC often runs clockwise during warmups prior to the workout.
- Choose the right lane/pace. Lanes are numbered 1-9 from inside to outside. SDTC typically runs in pace groups as follows:
- A group (under 7:30/mile pace) in lanes 1-3;
- B group (7:30-9:30/mile pace) lanes 4-6, and
- C group(10 minute+ pace) in lanes 7-9.
- Pass on the right. When running counterclockwise, pass runners on their right side (the outside of the track).
- Communicate clearly when passing. Politely alert runners you are passing with a verbal cue like "on your right" or "track". This prevents startling them and helps avoid collisions.
- Look before you enter or cross. Treat the track like a busy road. Before stepping into a lane or crossing the track, look both ways to make sure the way is clear.
- Don't stand in the lanes. If you need to stop, rest, or stretch, move completely off the track onto the infield or a designated area. Never stop abruptly in the middle of a workout lane.
- Run no more than two across. Running in a wide group can block the entire track and make passing difficult. Keep groups to a maximum of two people side-by-side to allow others to get around.
- Be aware of your surroundings. We encourage you to connect with fellow runners over music. But if you do listen to music, use only one earbud or keep the volume low enough to hear other runners calling out.
- Say hi to someone new. You may come for the run, but you’ll stay for the community. While you’re running try to say hi or introduce yourself to someone you haven’t met yet. See someone new to the track? Help them feel welcome by introducing yourself.
We hope these tips help you have a great workout! Find track workout details and connect with your fellow runners by joining the San Diego Track Club Strava group.
