Introduction

Running, jumping, throwing, vaulting, doping, wheezing, stopping. All the stuff the fit kids at school did with ease – except the last three, which you did. Well, no longer. This is your moment. Find the tightest pair of shorts you can: it’s time to hit the track.

The basics

England Athletics describes it as “the most exciting, diverse and vibrant sport there is”. Which it would, I suppose. Diverse is right, at least: current championship regulations include 32 events, ranging from the 100m to the discus to the decathlon. You’ll probably focus on one to begin with – though not necessarily the one you anticipate. Paula Radcliffe’s coach, Alex Stanton, has this to say: “Try not to set your mind on ‘I’m going to be a good runner’. That’s OK but it’s important to try other things at the same time. Some long-distance runners end up sprinting or throwing, some go the other way round and do the longer distances. It just depends on what you enjoy.” The best route forward is to find a club. Don’t be daunted – most welcome a wide range of age and ability level.

Health benefits

These vary according to your chosen event. Distance running can lead to weight loss, muscle toning and cardiovascular health, and even help alleviate insomnia. Shot putting builds strength and balance. Throwing the javelin makes you feel like an extra on Game of Thrones. All can have some positive effect on energy levels, mood and general fitness.

Equipment, costs and practicalities

Club memberships vary in price: for example, it’s £35 a year for Abergele Harriers non-track-based running club, £50 for track-based Worcester Athletic Club, and £40 for membership of the track-based South London Harriers. The fee includes a stipend paid to the relevant national athletics association. A basic pair of track spikes can be had from about £25. After that, it depends how much you want to spend: equipment exists to boost every feasible aspect of performance.

Trendiness rating: 7/10

The running revolution continues apace in the UK (you’ve seen the body police doing laps of the park). As you move towards the murkier field events, the cool factor begins to decline, but the satisfaction of having found a group of fellow pole-vaulting enthusiasts probably makes up for that.

Inside line

Liz Birchall, UK Athletics: “Athletics is a sport that offers opportunities for everyone. Whether you want to run, jump or throw, coach, measure or time, athletics is vibrant, accessible, exciting, inspiring and fun. Clubs offer induction sessions and welcome nights for new members so don’t be afraid to get in touch with your local one and check out how you can get started. Just have a go! For a talented and enthusiastic young people or budding athletes, the first step is to find a nearby club and a coach. Try the club search at uka.org.uk.

If you fancy a direction other than as an active athlete then why not think about volunteering – coaching, officiating or helping the club operate. For more information on this contact your respective national federation – eg England Athletics. Those interested in learning how to coach athletes can find information on our website uCoach, while those keen on becoming officials and perhaps one day firing the starter pistol for a major 100m final can find out more about officiating at uka.org.uk/officials.”

Find out more

UK athletics club website directory – a compendium of athletics clubs nationwide.

UK Athletics – the sport’s governing body in the UK.

You may also like

Pentathlon, triathlon.

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Archery, sailing.

Over to you

Are you an athlete? Help us build up this resource by sharing tips, videos, links to clubs and anything else that beginners might find useful.

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