For anyone who’s traded the open road for the indoor track during the colder months, you’re likely familiar with a phenomenon runners affectionately (and perhaps begrudgingly) call the “track hack.” It’s not a secret training technique, but rather that persistent, dry cough that seems to cling to you after every indoor track session. Whether it’s post-800m race rasp or a coughing fit triggered by a demanding 400m sprint or even just the warm-up, the track hack is a widespread, almost epidemic-level experience within the indoor running community.
Newcomers to indoor track, especially those transitioning from outdoor running or different climates, often find themselves particularly susceptible. Imagine a runner from sunny California, completely unacquainted with the concept of indoor tracks, suddenly facing the realities of recirculated indoor air and the infamous track hack. It’s a rite of passage, an unwelcome initiation into the unique world of indoor track and field.
Beyond the respiratory challenges, indoor tracks themselves present a different set of hurdles. While many are fortunate to train on excellent 200-meter indoor tracks, even these top-tier facilities, requiring eight laps to complete a mile, can take a toll. The constant tight turns are a common complaint, often leading to soreness in hips and shins. Of course, the opportunity to race indoors, shielded from icy winter conditions, is invaluable. However, these smaller tracks can certainly ignite a longing for the spacious freedom of a 400-meter outdoor track.
And then there are the truly unique tracks, those even smaller than the standard 200 meters. Practicalities of space and budget often dictate these dimensions, making a 160-meter track, albeit with even more laps, a better option than no track at all. But the variations don’t stop there. Consider the unconventional dimensions like a 179-meter track. While the facilities might be excellent and the people welcoming, the track itself becomes a character in the experience. Imagine running a 3200m race requiring a perplexing 17 and 7/8 laps. Losing count becomes almost inevitable, perhaps even a strategic advantage, pushing you harder under the illusion of nearing the finish line.
Despite these quirks and minor annoyances, the indoor track season serves a vital purpose: providing crucial race experience before the outdoor season commences. And let’s not overlook the distinct charm and camaraderie that indoor track uniquely fosters.
Limited space indoors often pushes warm-ups into school hallways, a practice some athletes dislike. Yet, for others, these pre-race explorations of school corridors become an unexpected highlight, discovering favorite warm-up spots within each venue.
Furthermore, the indoor 4×400 meter relay stands out as an unparalleled event. The dilemma of whether to run and experience the electric atmosphere firsthand or cheer from the sidelines, fueled by the deafening encouragement of teammates lining the track, is a constant internal debate. The sheer intensity of an indoor 4×400 relay, with roaring fans creating a tunnel of sound, is an experience unlike any other. Conversely, being part of that cheering crowd, leading chants and amplifying the team spirit, is equally exhilarating.
From the track hack cough to the tight turns and the unparalleled team spirit, indoor track is a world of its own. So, to all indoor track athletes navigating these unique challenges and joys, keep pushing, embrace the quirks, and hack on!
