how do you prepare for your first track meet?

[nikki]

coach says that it will be freezing & start at 9 to 1, thats a long time & im only doing 2 events....what should i do the whole time while waiting?
im very nervous...and i dont want to be slower than everyone

 

[Helpless530]

When I did Track in Highschool it helped to to do a warm-up cycle in an open portion of the field before my events. It got my mind on my pace and my own business and off winning/losing. It also helped to realize that the only person you are really racing is yourself. Just run each race to beat your previous times and not the person in the lane next to you...That's typically when you do your best anyway.

And if that failed I'd think about some of my favorite songs to clear my head and get in a groove. : )

 

[Sky]

I was the same way at my first meet. Lol.

1. Since it's going to be cold, KEEP WARM. You do NOT need your muscles to be cold and tense for your events.

2. Eat things with potassium! Peanut butter and bananas are GREAT during track meets. Before the meet don't eat a huge greasy breakfast. I learned this the hard way.

3. Don't be uptight, just relax. My first track meet, our coach started playing baseball with a rolled up newspaper and bees that were flying around, he did it to keep the mood light. So bring music, run around and be a goofball, it helps a bunch.

4. Be sure to get a good nights sleep! You don't want to be AWOL in the middle of a race. I even splashed some ice water on my face before I walked out the door.

I hope that helps. :3

 

[SteveM]

Don't worry, I'm sure you'll do fine! While waiting, encourage your teammates! Just as you would want them cheering for you, you need to support your team. Good luck on your first track meet!