Running Tracks - Surfaces Exposed
Running is the least expensive kind of sport in terms of props and material used. All that is required is a flat hard surface. However, not all running tracks are safe for the body as the impact of the shock while running on hard surfaces may cause long term injuries. The best way to avoid serious long term injury is to vary running surfaces often.
Not all Running Tracks Are Equal
Here are some different running tracks which you can choose from depending on your age and the intensity of the activity.
Grass is considered as one the best running tracks. Football and hockey play fields and golf courses are ideal for running. Running on grass develops the muscles in the leg. Woodland trails run by cross country runners are another track which is considered safe and easy on the legs. Runners have to be careful of stones, rocks and roots of trees on the track while running. Earth trails are another safe running surface for runners which have less impact on the ankles and knee joints.
The other developed surfaces for running are cinders, asphalt, concrete, and synthetic tracks. Cinder paths are found in old parks and small towns. These paths are made up of a composition of small rock chips, ash , carbon and slag. These tracks are easier on the legs as compared to concrete and asphalt. Concrete is a very hard surface and running on this is not at all advisable. It creates the maximum shock on the runner's legs. Asphalt made up of gravel, crushed rock and tar is better than concrete.
Most modern stadiums have synthetic running tracks made up of polyurethane binder material, latex or rubber. These tracks are ideal for fast running. These tracks have the least impact of shock on the runner's legs. These tracks require little or no maintenance as any damage done to the surface can be replaced with a fresh track.
For the versatile runner who wants to develop his calf muscles, sand offers a good option. Running on the beach could either be done on the dunes or at the edge. Besides being scenic and healthy, running on the beach gives a good workout and builds up endurance and stamina.
As most athletic events take place in indoor stadiums, synthetic tracks are more popular than road running even for practice and training. Even as these running tracks are well cushioned, the runner has to be careful while running around the bends at high speed. Running around the curves puts additional stress on the ankles, knees and hips.
