5 replies to this topic

[zandrsmum]

Hi, this is a whole new world to me. I was not athletic in any sense of the word at high school and associate T&F with that. I only took up running at 30. I am now 37 and have had 5 years off with kids, so one would say I am very much a beginner again. Brief history started in tri - sprint distance, moved on to running 5k then 10k then half and full marathon. Have started back at 5k with one of my goals to be running sub 20 by the end of the year (Currently at 27.50 with a PB of 21.49 in 2003) . Have just had a quick browse of this forum and was hoping for some training advice.

What do track runners do differently to road runners? (Other than run on a track!!)
Are there clubs adult beginners can be part of?
And how does the culture differ from road running groups/races?
Do people run for fun and PB's or is it more about qualifying for different events over a season?

It seems a lot quicker, well to me anyway, to road running. I guess because it is flat?
Really interested in finding out more and any training tips would be appreciated, thanks. K

[M12]

Track runners would probably do more speed sessions.

Yeh most clubs would welcome adult beginners.

The culture around club track meets is a bit different, your kinda in a team so you get a bit of support from others with the same singlet as yours. Mass participation races are a bit different because its more about beating yourself (setting PB's) whereas track club meets are more about racing and making sure you beat who you need to beat (which is easy when your the only one qualified!). In mass participation events I'm usually an average middle of the pack runnner but when I go and run for CCA, I'm usually towards the back running fairly average times. Basically the pace is a look quicker, the field is a lot more talented. At AV you run based on your ability so thats kinda good (ie: if you run a 5min-5:20 1500m, you run together).

I wouldn't say people run for fun at club meets, well I suppose they wouldn't do it if they didn't enjoy it. They'd go out to run PB's but they take it way more seriously at the top end of the field. Towards the end of the season you begin running around trying to fill events to get points and qualify for finals.

It's quicker because the field is faster, pushing you along, usually wearing spikes or flats which and closer to the ground and the track encourages faster running.

Hopefully this somehow answers your questions!

[Lors]

I do both I run 10km road runs on weekendand currently training for a half marathon. I also run at the local masters athletic group which I have just started to do. Personally I find track running more monotonous also faster but I enjoy the participation with a friendly group of people. All over 30's. You also have a chance to join in with some sprints and field events though so far I have stuck with 3/5km runs. not quite sure how to run the shorter distances.My experience of the masters group is most run for fun and PB's and are very encouraging of all athletes no matter what ability. Of course there are some who are a bit more serious but bearing in mind there are a wide age range of people in ther group.My kids come down and join in too and they are very encouraged and have picked up loads of tips.

Can't add many training tips as I am a beginner myself but I have built up my running by starting on the track and joining in with the kids who were training with little athletics. As well as masters I do some sprint training with my boys when they are training at Little Athletics which I'm hoping to use to build up speed on my other runs.

If you are nervous about competitiveness. I personally would recommend the Masters route as opposed to Seniors. Some of these older guys are fantastic, my son was very impressed at the men running 400m in 54 secs. I was definately impressed by a man in his 80's still racewalking'

Hope this is helpful and not just me rambling.

[HillsAths1]

Track training is a great way to get that time for your 5km down.

As long as you find a suitable club (and coach)you will benefit. My squad is made up of 50 years plus males, 35 plus women and under 16 male and females. Some are very talented(get medals at nationals) and others are down there for a good time, mix with people and get some exercise.

The bonus with training with a group on the track is that no matter how bad you are you are never too far away from the leader. It is an easier way to measure your progress, you tend to push yourself harder in track sessions, and generally it allows a coach to monitor your running technique(and make adjustments).

Track racing is also good as it is generally held in the summer when the fun run scene is not so busy and gives you an extra opportunity to race. Most of the distance track squads also do the winter fun runs/cross country.

Most clubs would be happy to have a person who is trying to break 20 minutes as a goal.

If you indicate your suburb, I am sure that someone will be able to direct you to a suitable club in your area. If you are anywhere near Sydneys Hills District please feel free to contact me.

[zandrsmum]

Thank you all so much for such comprehensive replies. I am in the outer east of Melbourne in The Basin. I think there is a Knox club which would be my first point of call I guess. Good to hear people do both road and track as I do love what I do, I just want to get better! Can you just train at a club or is there an expectation that you will compete? Or is it no fun without the actual racing? I have small kids and would love them to be involved as they get a little older. Again, thank you. I have a much better idea now. K

[M12]

Well you'd need to join a club, but when you run is pretty much upto you.