I live just over a mile from a high school track and 4 miles from the U of O track. Both offer great opportunities for workouts apart from the usual distance runs. When I’m looking for a track workout, I’ll usually run to it, do some intervals, then run back home for a complete workout.

What’s nice about the nearby high school track is that it’s usually not very crowded – only a few other runners or walkers at any given time.

Here are a few pointers for running on the track:

• If you’re using lane 1 for your workout, move over to the next lane when faster runners come up on you, especially during a cooldown portion of your speedwork.
• During recovery after the faster runs, keep moving instead of stopping altogether. It’s better for the heart to gradually elevate and slow the heart rate.
• Typically you’ll run counterclockwise on the track, but you can mix it up and go the other way. Watch carefully for others if you do!
• Wear spikes occasionally if you have them – this is the place to use them. Expect a little soreness after using them if you’re not used to it.

Challenge yourself to run a fast lap, recover, then beat that time on the next fast lap. Just completing these faster runs improves your overall conditioning and fitness level, adding endurance to your longer runs.