About Running Track Surfaces

Running tracks are among the oldest and most basic sporting facilities. The materials from which a running track surface is composed will have a great impact on not only the performance, but also the health of the runners who use the running track.

  1. Impact

    • The days of asphalt and concrete running tracks are over; a running track surface is designed to offer a level of cushion to a runner, cushioning the impact of foot on ground and leading to a reduction in acute and chronic injuries.

    History

    • After asphalt and concrete running track surfaces, rubber was used to cushion impact. Nowadays full-pour urethane is used; it is more durable against climate changes.

    Surface types

    • During the evolution of running track surfaces, different surfaces became known as either hard or soft tracks, with hard tracks being preferred by sprinters and soft tracks by distance runners.

    Injury

    • Knee injury and repetitive stress injury was more common when running tracks were composed of a harder surface. Modern-day tracks are safer and place less stress on the body.

    Performance

    • Modern surfaces improve performance by offering a superior return energy and shock absorption. Increased traction plays a part in the constantly improving performance in athletics.