i was wondering if track spikes gave you an advantage over racing flats. im getting ready to start the track season and can't decide if i should purchase racing flats or track spikes to run the 1600 and 3200 in. Do spikes help you go faster or is there any difference at all?
I am founding that more and more elite athletes do their track workout in flats but still race in spikes .
I think it would be difficult to start doing track workouts w/o "ouch" in calf area .
I remember one guy racing 5K on a track in flats .
Another thing is to pick right spikes for the distance . Running in sprinter's spikes in long distance race may be harmful .
What's the general opinion on wearing flats vs. spikes in track workouts, namely intervals (400's to miles)?
What do the sprinters do?
Replying to both questions above :
most sprinters do speedwork in spikes , however some will learn from bad experience and try to save their legs for competition only.
Doing repetition in spikes would be felt to degree of not being able to walk w/o pain . Very stressful on calf muscles . I'd say - start with easy running on grassy infield and do some easy sprints .
If you are not a factor to contest the State , get yourself a nice pair of racing flats .
Winning is not nearly as important as staying with the sport.
the most important decision is the kind of spike you use. Some prefer 1/4 inch needle, others go with 1/4 inch pyramids. Sounds like a little difference, but it really makes the race.
If after a track workout in spikes, your calfs are more sore than your thighs, you have a muscle imbalance.
It makes sense to me that a person should train in an environment that is as similar as possible to racing conditions. If you are wearing spikes to race in, you should try and train in spikes as much as possible.
rnrgrl wrote:
the most important decision is the kind of spike you use. Some prefer 1/4 inch needle, others go with 1/4 inch pyramids. Sounds like a little difference, but it really makes the race.
Fortunately we have those who never, ever miss a chance to let everyone know they don't think the kind of spike matters.
They're the real heroes.
Idiot, thats very poor grammar, and terrible sentence construction.
Also, type of material is just as crucial, steel for the strength or ceramic for the lightness. Dont make a mistake...
gear junkie wrote:
I am founding that more and more elite athletes do their track workout in flats but still race in spikes .
Good one , thanks ! ( so much for my kids slang around the house )