How to Prepare for a Track Meet

Track and Field meets are popular sporting events from middle school through college. Participants train throughout the season, if not the entire year, to be in top shape when competing. Preparing for each individual meet is as important as preparing for the season.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Load up on carbohydrates the two or three days before the meet. Get the team together for a pasta party and serve pasta, bread, fruits and vegetables.

2. Stretch to keep the blood flowing and your muscles loose.

3. Keep healthy snacks such as peanut butter sandwiches and carrot sticks and energy drinks around the day of the meet. Eat and drink before you are hungry and thirsty to keep your body's energy level constant.

4. Practice running your races, but be careful not to do too much. You want to do well--pulled muscles and overtraining will not help.

5. Follow instructions from the track coach. Be on time and be ready.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your shoes in good condition. Make sure to have proper arch support and traction.
• Get plenty of sleep the night before the meet.
• Relax and have fun. You might even run faster if your body is relaxed.
• Keep bandages, pain reliever, snacks, water, tissues and a warm-up jacket if necessary in your athletic bag to take to the track meet.
• Don't smoke. Smoking will inhibit your breathing and make it more difficult to run.
• Avoid drinking alcohol and sodas before a meet. Water and sports drinks are healthier during the athletic season.
• Avoid trying new things on the day of the meet. If you don't normally run a mile before the meet, that day isn't the day to start.

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