What it takes to be in track

Senior+Catherine+Franch+stretches+before+practice.+

Photo by Leslie Najera-Rivas

Senior Catherine Franch stretches before practice.

By Leslie Najera-Rivas, Editor in Chief

Track consists of many other activities and responsibilities than just running.

Having a busy schedule, for example, is one of them.

“We meet six days out of the week, we meet every day except Sunday,” girls track captain Catherine Franch said.

Each day, their practices consist of different exercises.

“Three days of the week are usually just trying to manage so I do about 6 miles,” Franch, a senior said. “Two days of the week are speed training so we do temple runs or workouts on the track.”

Temple runs are running faster than usual.

Their practices not only include workouts, but also team building activities.

“It has improved (team bond) over time because we’re all closer together as a team and that helps our performance and friendship,” Franch said.“It (team building) helps develop your teamwork and ability to work with others.”

Track can have hard practices but are necessary for improvement.  

“I think it’s important to work out hard and try your best,” Franch said. “Have a positive attitude even if it’s not something that you want to be doing at that moment.”

Many girls try to maintain a healthy diet.

“I just try to eat healthier and eat more fruits and vegetables in my diet,” Franch said.

Although the practices and requirements for the runners are difficult, they do help the girls improve.

“I’ve improved over time,” Franch said. “Being able to push myself even when I’m tired and don’t sincerely want to work out.”

Track can also help with goal making and problem-solving.

“I’d say the ultimate goal is to keep improving and to be supportive of your friends and teammates and they continue to improve as well,” Franch said.

Their most recent meet was on Saturday.