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TRACK ETIQUETTE

Here are the key rules and etiquette to follow, not just here, but at any standard track or oval. Whether you're training solo, with friends, or as part of a team, knowing how to move with awareness and respect keeps the space safe and efficient for everyone.

LANE GUIDE

Lane 1 = innermost | Lane 5 = outermost

Here’s how each lane is best used to keep the track safe and efficient for everyone:

  • Lane 1 and 2 – Reserved for speedwork: intervals, time trials, or fast, focused efforts
  • Lane 3 – Used for overflow speedwork or for overtaking during heavy traffic
  • Lane 4 and above – Ideal for warm-ups, cool-downs, recovery jogs, or walking laps
  • Inside field or off-track – Step here for resting, drills, stretching, or full stops between efforts

THE ESSENTIAL RULES

  1. Respect Lane Priority
    Lane 1 & 2 is for those doing focused, timed efforts — NOT for jogging, walking, resting. Please move to outer lanes if you’re not actively training.
  2. Run Counterclockwise
    Unless otherwise instructed, always run counterclockwise. It’s the global standard — and prevents collisions.
  3. Don’t Block or Stop on the Track
    Need to stop or catch your breath? When safe and clear of oncoming runners/walkers, step off into the grass or move to the outermost lanes. Never stop in Lane 1 or 2.
  4. Overtake Politely
    Say on your right if you’re passing. Don’t cut in too early, give enough space, especially during speedwork.
  5. Be Aware & Kind Towards Others
    Keep your eyes up. No zoning out. Avoid using loud music or blocking the lane in a group. Everyone deserves a clear path. And feel free to encourage those who are running alongside you.

THE DEETS

Workout begins at 6:15 PM every Wednesday from March to October. We recommend arriving at 6:00 PM to warm up, find the right pace group for you, and hear team announcements.

Check our website, social pages or sign up to receive weather alerts directly to your cell phone that may affect the locations of team workouts and events. Data & message rates apply.

Group Leaders will facilitate the workout at the following paces:
👉 Group 1 :: < 6:30/mi.
👉 Group 2 :: 6:30-7:30/mi.
👉 Group 3 :: 7:30-8:30/mi.
👉 Group 4 :: 8:30-10:00/mi.
👉 Group 5 :: 10:00-15:00+/mi.

REMEMBER to listen to your body and do what is best for your ability! You are allowed to switch groups, skip intervals, or complete your workout at any time.

HYDRATION is important: Bring a water bottle.

BABYSITTING is available for $5 per child ONLY when children are RSVP’d on the team website.

FRIENDS ARE WELCOME at the track. If they are a non-member, we ask that they bring $1 to donate and complete our waiver before participating.

RUNNING & SAFETY ETIQUETTE

Roads are shared. So is responsibility.

Whether you're an avid runner or just like to enjoy a stroll, staying aware of your surroundings is essential. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

🌟 1. Run Facing Traffic: This allows you to see oncoming vehicles and react accordingly.

🌟 2. Wear Bright & Reflective Clothing: Make yourself visible to drivers, especially at night or in low-light conditions.

🌟 3. Stay Alert & Aware: Keep an eye on the road and be mindful of potential hazards, people, or unusual activity. Refrain from using headphones or looking at your phone while jogging.

🌟 4. Follow Traffic Rules: Use designated pedestrian crossings, obey traffic signals, stop signs, and other rules of the road.

🌟 5. Run with a Buddy or Pace Group: Whenever possible, run with a friend or in a group. There's strength in numbers, and it’s always safer to have someone by your side.

🌟 6. Plan Safe Routes: Choose running routes that are safe and well-lit. Avoid areas with heavy traffic or known safety hazards. Let someone know where you’re going and how long you expect to be out. Vary your route and the times you go out to avoid being predictable.

🌟 7. Carry Identification & Protection: Have identification and emergency contact information with you during runs. Keep a safety whistle, personal alarm, or pepper spray on hand in case of an emergency. These small tools could buy you time or attract help if needed.

🌟 8. Keep Your Phone Accessible: Make sure your phone is within easy reach and has enough battery to make a call in case of an emergency.

BEST PRACTICES

KNOW YOUR LIMITS and listen to your body and do what is best for your ability.

STAY HYDRATED & NOURISHED and fuel properly before, during, and after runs to maintain health and performance.

MONITOR WEATHER CONDITIONS and adjust running plans accordingly. Avoid running in extreme weather conditions that could pose a risk to health and safety.

TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS if something or someone makes you feel uncomfortable, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation. Better safe than sorry.


WEATHER CANCELLATION POLICY

Personally, we love to run in all kinds of weather! However, your personal safety is very important to us. As such, certain weather conditions will justify the cancellation of group runs. Our weather policy is oriented around a color coded Green, Yellow or Red flag system:


Fast Track Weather Cancellation Policy
Color Summer Winter Results
GREEN Heat index cooler than 90 Wind chill warmer than -10 Event goes on as planned
YELLOW Heat index 90-100 or Dangerous weather is potentially in the area Wind chill -10 to -20 or Dangerous weather is potentially in the area Members should slow pace, dress appropriately and consider moving indoors; event may be cancelled if weather conditions worsen.
RED Heat index warmer than 100; Or Lighting is present, or dangerous thunderstorms, hail or tornadoes are in the area Wind chill colder than -20 Or Hazardous running or driving conditions are present: icy, slick, low visibility, blizzard, etc. Event is cancelled

  • Based on the upcoming hourly forecast, if conditions are not going to be green, the anticipated color will be communicated via social networks 4 hours prior to the event based on the forecast.
  • The final decision will be communicated 2 hours prior to start time.
  • Of course, unexpected weather conditions (e.g. pop-up severe thunderstorms) may result in last minute cancellations.
  • Cancellation notifications will be sent via email and SMS (if opted in).
  • Data source: Fast Track will use the National Weather Service hourly area forecast for the time period the event is planned to occur, available here: NWS Hourly Forecast: O'Hare Airport