Supervision

• On-site supervision is recommended for sprints and relays following initial skill instruction and after all safety concerns have been emphasized.
• In-the-area supervision is recommended for middle distances (400 m, 800 m and 1500 m).
• When running distances of 400 m or greater, students should run in pairs or groups.

Instructional Considerations

• For distance running practice, length of route should be appropriately modified for the age and ability level of students taking into account:
  • Temperature of the day
  • Previous training and length of preparation.
• Students should be made aware of field events while practicing on the track.
• Where school hallways or stairways are used for indoor running, appropriate safety measures should be in place including:
  • Side doors should not open into running area.
  • Hallway protrusions should be clearly marked.
  • School community should be informed of times and locations of indoor running.
  • Hall double doors should be secured open.
  • Monitors should be positioned at corners.
  • Floor surface should be dry and provide good footing.

Equipment/Facilities

• Plastic or aluminum batons should be used for relays.
• Students running off-site for practice should use an approved route.
• “Blacktop” strips and open fields may be used if areas are suitable, smooth, clean, level and provide safe footing.
• Run out areas should be in place for all running events.
• Spikes of any kind should not be worn.