Items Needed for Track & Field Events

Athletes competing in track and field events need to have various facilities and equipment. Facilities necessary for throwing, running, hurdling and jumping events include a track, a field and a sand pit. Each event also requires particular items of equipment and, in most cases, athletes have a wide range of choices to suit their tastes and abilities.

  1. Throwing Implements

    • Athletes competing in throwing events have an array of implements from which to choose, namely javelins, discuses, shots and hammers. These items are available in various sizes and weights for athletes of different ages and abilities. Another factor is the material from which the implement is made. Athletes should also consider the special characteristics which some implements have, such as the rim weight of a discus. Athletes may also choose to wear gloves for the hammer throw.

    Jumping Equipment

    • Jumping events require particular equipment to allow athletes to compete safely. The high jump and pole vault events require a crossbar to jump over and standards to hold it up. These events also require appropriate mats to ensure a safe landing. Pole vaulters also need a pole and a vault box into which the pole is planted. The long jump and triple jump require a take-off board and rakes to remove marks from the sandpit.

    Sprints and Hurdles

    • Sprinters often use starting blocks to to begin the dash more quickly. Starting blocks come in various styles and sizes, giving runners options to choose from. Hurdles are necessary to hold both hurdling and steeple chase events. Hurdles come in different sizes and may be adjustable, as different groups of athletes use different heights. The design of hurdles also varies, and some are sturdier or lighter than others.

    Other Equipment

    • Many athletes choose to use spikes or other shoes specific to their events. Teams of athletes competing in relays need batons to pass to one another during the race. Measuring equipment is also necessary for the various jumping and throwing events. Other necessary items include timing equipment, athlete numbers and starter's pistols.