Track and Field Training Vs. Cross Country Training.?

Question

I am trying to find something to do (sports) at school. I'm going to 10th grade next year and I want to become involved. I was thinking that over the summer I could begin training myself for cross country and track season next school year. I've never played sports or ran track before. I know I won't be that good, but i want to try anyway. I think I run fast if you take my size into consideration ( I'm like 5'3 and like 130). So i figured if i lost some pounds and worked on my speed and endurance i could do okay. How can I train? Or would it be a bad idea to start something this late? * I really want to try*

Answer 1

Yes, absolutely! There's every reason to do it and no reason to not do it. Just start by jogging and running until you are exausted. 75% of running is mental. I'll be honest...the pain and exaustion gets pretty incredible when you run track and/or cross country. But the pain can't hurt you, it will only make you stronger and faster. It can only do good things for you. If you run and eat a healthy diet, you'll lose the weight.

I ran track and I have very fond memories of it. It got incredibly tough, but nothing feels better than when you push yourself further than you thought you could go. It doesn't matter what your time is or if your legs give out on you, if you keep going as hard as you can, you'll be very happy with yourself.

I would say that short distance sprinting (100m, 200m is for people who are naturally fast and athletic. I ran the 400 (and some 200 and 800). The longer running takes heart and determination. You might be slower than the people running with you, but if they can't take the pain and give up and you don't, you will beat them. Like I say, there's nothing better than knowing you gave it everything you had.

The physical discomfort can be intense, but don't let that dissuade you; it can't hurt you. When I was in the middle of my 3rd 400m in a snowy practice, I would remind myself that later that day I'd be at home on the couch laughing about how hard it was. That kept me going.

And, track and cross country are good because you don't have to be good at it to make the team (usually).

Also, if you're strong, you might consider javelin, shot put, and discuss.

Answer 2

It's not too late. Running is one of those sports where its never too late to start. In running you notice the most improvement in the shortest amount of time. Basketball and Baseball (both of which I have played or still play) it takes soo long to notice improvement. In running improvement will come from hard work and dedication. If you run starting every other day for say 2 weeks that 3rd week you run you would be able to run probably 4 or 5 times without feeling sore. Then again speed is nice for xc and or track, but as said prior, endurance and mental toughness help in running xc or track. Congratulations on wanting to start running.

Answer 3

I would go for it! I ran XC & Track in HS and made friends for life and some great memories. Running is a skill that anyone can improve with time and effort. Try the link below for a 10-week schedule to start running and make sure that you take it one step at a time. Gradually, you'll see yourself getting stronger, faster, more confident...and who knows?...you may just pick up a life-long hobby that you really enjoy. Best of luck!

- Mike

Answer 4

Of course you should try! Track is a sport for anyone not just the elite. It is for people to get out get in shape and learn to compete. If i were you I would focus on the track season because cross country can be grueling and cause you to burn out. If you think you will be a sprinter or mid-distance runner defiantly wait for track season and give it a go.

Answer 5

hey im in the 10th grade this year and i run both track and cross country and we won county this year so i might be able to help! we run sprints on mondays, hills on tuesday, run for 20 minutes on wed. then hills again on thursday, fun day on friday just do something that requires physical activity, then rest on sat., and long run on sunday. with the long run on sun you'll want to start at 2 miles and go up by a mile per week until you get to were you can do 10 miles. if you need to know anything else abt things like shoes or equipment just email me at [e-mail]

Answer 6

its definately not too late to try, your'e not old! the best thing to do is join a group- that way u can train with other keen athletes & wont have to worry about session plans to start off with. the group should change their training depending on the season. if u decide that running is for you, then ur coach will help u plan a few sessions or long runs that u cd do as extra on ur own. don't worry about ur size, the pounds should drop off naturally with the exercise. go for it!

Answer 7

Of course it is not a bad idea. Your weight is fine! Run at least 3 times a week.If you are interested in cross country try jogging for as long as you can and push your self. Speed is good too but not as important as endurance. Before you start running and stretching run a short warm-up. :] Good luck.