BBAC TRACK ETIQUETTE

VERSION APR 22

Track etiquette is important to the smooth operation of the track facilities.  Track sessions run by BBAC may be quite busy with a number of training groups using the track at the same time.  To help sessions run smoother for all athletes, the following guidelines will help make your experience of the track more enjoyable.  Members should also review the facilities in use at the club to ensure they understand the context of this guidance:

GENERAL

• Be polite and respectful to other users of the track at all times. BBAC share the Track with Brentwood School and at times, do not have exclusive use of the track.
• Be aware of what is happening around you at all times and be aware of other groups using the track before and during your session.
• Please do not leave litter or spit on the track.
• Look after your belongings and remember to take everything with you when you leave. 

BEFORE ENTERING THE TRACK

• Do not cross the infield of the track at any time unless guided to do so by your Coach as throwing events / training maybe in progress.  
• When crossing the track, look both ways and ensure there is enough space and it is safe between you and any incoming runner.  
• Unless competing, use of starting blocks on the home and back straights should be confined to lanes 4 – 6. Use of starting blocks on the bends should be confined to lanes 5 and 6.

WHEN ON TRACK

• Lane 1 should only be used where possible for timed runs only. This is to avoid excessive wear of the track surface. Use lanes 5 and 6 for recovery runs, warm-up and cool-down unless otherwise guided by your Coach.
• In group training, warm up drills should be confined to lanes 4 – 6 only.
• Always run anti-clockwise including when running down the home and back straights unless otherwise instructed by your Coach.
• When starting a lap or rep. care should be taken not to impede or restrict an athlete already in progress. Note, do not stand in lanes 1, 2 or 3 until you are ready to start your run or unless instructed to do so by your Coach.
• When overtaking an athlete with a lap or rep. in progress, the overtaking athlete must overtake on the outside.  Athletes must leave sufficient space and not cut to the inside until they are one stride clear of the athlete being overtaken.
• Athletes on completing their lap or rep. should immediately step off the track or move out into lanes 5 and 6 being aware of any athletes using these lanes for straight line sprinting.

OTHER SAEFTY CONSIDERATIONS

• Headphones are not to be used when using the track to avoid not hearing other track users or safety announcements.
• Any athlete shouting the term TRACK should be aware that it is only used to avoid dangerous situations.  Specifically, when someone is not aware of your oncoming presence putting them in danger. It should not be used for overtaking other athletes.

You can read more at a really helpful article on Track etiquette here.