As the track team prepares for its upcoming meets team members stretch their legs and get ready to run. Among them are several new faces.
Track has significantly increased in popularity this year. The team has even drawn athletes away from other usual spring sports.
“I just didn’t want to do softball anymore, and I thought I’d be good at running,” said new track member Jalen Jimenez, junior.
Track is not just about the present. Ex-tennis player Tate Tufte, junior, opted to be in track to help him with soccer. He believes track will help him to play soccer in college.
“If you play another sport, it’s really good conditioning for it,” Tufte said.
Running is overflowing with health benefits. Aerobic exercise, such as running, strengthens bones and makes the heart work more efficiently. It even releases hormones that make you feel good. Some studies have shown that running not only reduces stress, but can improve brain function.
“You get super fit from running all the time,” Jimenez said.
The new recruits are enjoying more than the health benefits. There is always time to socialize and develop friendships at practice.
“You get to do your workout while you talk to friends,” Tufte said. “It’s pretty enjoyable.”
Hard work has been put in by the whole track community. Boys and girls track has already competed five times this season with many more meets on their way.
Although it feels good to be the first to the finish, success isn’t just measured in who gets the best times. Knowing you did your absolute best in what you did, whether it be a sprint or long distance, is an accomplishment in itself.
Track is a great activity for anyone looking for self improvement, or even a few new friends.
“I really love track,” Jimenez said.