Athletes line up at the track and begin their warm-ups. While they run, many are reminded of their disdain towards the activity. Many runners experience an aversion toward track. According to a survey of 25,000 runners, 50% said they did not care for running or only tolerated it, while only 8% said they loved running. If students get to choose the sport they play, why would one choose to do something they hate?
“Every time I hear that we are running, I dread practice,” Juliette Lindsey (‘26) said
Even with this discontent with running, each day track athletes show up to practice. To stay motivated through the season, athletes recognize the other benefits running track provides.
“I do [track] to get fit and stay in shape, [and] you meet a lot of new friends,” Emerson Meyers (‘25) said.
Track athletes practice six days a week, which strengthens both their fitness and friendships.
“[I do track for] more of the social part and the community,” Jessica Arcangel (‘25) said.
The intense workouts that track runners are required to participate in push the athletes to form strong bonds with each other.
“The workouts are really hard, but [the people] are motivating,” Arcangel said.
Aside from the many social benefits track provides, many students use track and field as a secondary sport to stay in shape year round.
“I want to be faster for other sports, and [track] keeps me in shape during off-seasons,” Jayce Dawson (‘25) said.
With intense workouts such as hill sprints, jumping up bleachers, and racing up dunes, cardio training boosts overall athleticism. Although running is a major component of track and field training, athletes enjoy the other non-running events they can participate in.
“I like the other events,” Camden Kardel (‘27) said. “They’re really fun, and it’s fun to get a new PR (personal record).”
Jumps, pole vault, and throws are all popular events. However, athletes who participate in these events are still required to engage in intense running workouts and special events.
“I hate the workouts but I love saying that I do track,” Zairah Ramirez (‘25) said.
Track and field requires dedication and physical endurance, but is made worth it by the friendships, fitness, and opportunities that outweigh the hate felt towards running.
