If you've never competed in a sport, track and field offers many opportunities for high school students to excel. Whether you'd like to be a "miler," spring out of the blocks as a sprinter, or pretend your French teacher is the shotput and see how far you can hurl him, give the sport a good look.
Instructions
1. Ask your gym teacher about when track practice will be starting. Springtime is running season for most schools, but conditioning may start in late winter. It's never too early to start getting in shape for the team. Spend some time at the YMCA and take a spinning class or use the track for a gentle run.
2. Decide which event you would like to focus on. Do you want to go the distance and run the mile or 800 meters, or sprint in the 100, 200 or 400 meters (or hurdles)? Or you may want to try the long jump, high jump, pole vault, shotput or discus. Your coach may suggest possible events for you after he runs your team through drills.
3. Warm up for practice with a 10-15 minute jog and then stretch. Don't try to stretch cold muscles, because you could risk an injury.
4. Get to know your teammates. You can learn a lot from them, especially the kids who've been on the team before. You'll enjoy cheering each other on as well.
5. Prepare adequately for any track meet. Make sure to eat, but don't overload your stomach. Avoid sugary snacks and soft drinks and just stick with water in advance of the big day. Relax when you're on the starting line, and try to cheer yourself on. Focus on the task ahead and managing your energy for your big finish.
6. Assess your performance after the meet, but don't dwell on what you did wrong. Instead, take note of what you did right and vow to do it again the next time.
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