Have you ever noticed a runner performs better on a certain track? While there could be several reasons why, one you might not have thought of is the type of track surface material. Various types of running track surfaces affect how a runner performs. Athletic directors of schools and communities should be aware of this if they are considering adding or replacing their current
running track.
For over 25 years, American Athletic Track and Turf, a proud partner of
Beynon Sports, a leading provider of environmentally sustainable athletic surfaces, has been designing and constructing premier, award-winning sports complexes for clients throughout the East Coast. Here, we discuss the role running track material plays in runners’ overall performance and safety.
Importance of Choosing the Right Track Surface Material
The running track surface you choose impacts more than just the overall look of your athletic facility. Different types of running track surfaces can affect a runner in a variety of ways, including:
Performance
The goal of any competitive runner is to run their specific discipline as fast as they can. To do this requires dedication and skill. Another important factor to help runners achieve maximum performance is the actual track surface itself. Harder running track surfaces offer better performance due to their ability to minimize shock absorption and ground contact time.
Another component that determines how fast a running track surface will allow runners to go is the amount of grip they provide. More textured surfaces enable runners to stabilize their bodies quicker, helping them to make their next stride at a much more rapid pace.
Runner’s Safety
Athletic directors and business directors should note that different running surfaces can increase or lower a runner’s risk of injury. Concrete and asphalt are less forgiving on the runner’s joints. The constant punishment can lead to serious injuries over time. Softer, more forgiving surfaces decrease muscle stress, providing a much more comfortable experience for runners.
Longevity and Maintenance Needed
Running tracks are an investment. Athletic directors and athletic facility managers want to get the most out of their running track surfaces. While some materials, such as grass and clay, may be less expensive during initial construction, these surface types struggle to withstand natural wear and tear. Not to mention they are easily affected by rain and other inclement weather conditions. To ensure these types of running surfaces remain safe to use, frequent maintenance is needed.
Help Making the Right Decision
Given the number of ways a running track surface impacts a runner’s ability to perform, choosing the right one for your facility isn’t a decision to take lightly. Clients unsure about which track surface is best for them can consult the experienced team at American Athletic Track and Turf. Our representatives are happy to discuss with clients their options and go over the pros and cons of each surface.
Get Premium Running Surfaces from American Athletic
When it comes to your running track facility, surface matters. At American Athletic Track and Turf, we are dedicated to providing our clients with running track surfaces that not only encourage maximum performance but are exceptionally safe and durable, as well. That’s why we use polyurethane or latex World Athletics/International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) certified synthetic track surfaces manufactured by Beynon Sports. Their athletic surfaces are featured in some of the most prestigious sporting complexes in the world.
Included in our wide assortment of
running track services, we offer professional
repair and maintenance, helping clients maintain their running track and extending its lifespan. All of our offerings are also backed with enhanced warranties for added peace of mind. Additionally, to help clients save time and money, we offer the
SmartBuy Co-op Purchasing Program so you can conveniently skip the conventional bidding process.
To learn more about how track surface material correlates to performance and safety, or to discover how we can help you create your dream athletic facility,
contact us today at American Athletic Track and Turf.
