IMPORTANT: DO'S & DON'TS
Whilst we want you to have fun, the safety of all athletes is of the highest importance.
Here are some important points to bear in mind .......
DO:
- Pay attention to TRACK ETIQUETTE
- Pay attention to the coaches and respect them and your fellow athletes.
- Be careful around the arena - always look before you step onto the track in case an athlete is heading for you - 13 stone of solid muscle at full pelt can hurt!
- Only use those lanes that have been allocated to you by your Coach
- Look and move quickly to another, preferably outer, lane, if you hear a cry of 'TRACK' [you are probably blocking someone's lane]
- Step off the track after completing your track rep to make room for other athletes
- Warm up properly before starting. Pulled muscles can take a while to heal.
- Bring water to drink during the training sessions - but sip it, don't gulp!
- Let your coach know of any medical conditions that may affect your athletics - this includes asthma.
- Accidents and injuries must be reported to your Coach so that the appropriate treatment and reporting procedures can be followed.
DON'T:
- Mess around. Whilst you are there to have fun, the arena can be a dangerous place - especially the infield. Javelins, discus, shotput and hammers can all cause serious injury.. .or worse! NEVER cross the arena via the in-field, always walk around the outside of the track on the tarmac path.
- Use the inside lane for warming up.
- Eat for at least 90 minutes before training - you will regret it!
- Train if injured. Frustrating as it is, you will aggravate your injury and possibly cause more serious damage. Club officials will be able to recommend professional help (physios etc.) if needed.
- Attempt ANY field events when there isn't a coach present. All training, in any events, must be supervised.
Clothing
Athletes should be dressed in T-shirt, shorts and trainers, you'll also need warm, waterproof outer clothing to be able to train outside in most weather conditions - not forgetting hats and gloves for those cold winter evenings! White / Reflective clothing tops must be worn if training outside the track on the roads during the dark winter months. Spikes are an advantage for sprinting and jumping but are not essential, they only become necessary when competing. Coaches are always willing to offer advice on suitable footwear.