|
 |
Mainly for Parents and young people
Athletics has an image of itself as a splendid sport, which is healthy for both the minds and bodies of young people - if you like, the view from the inside looking out. However, many people only know what the mass media tell them about Athletics as there is no other information around. Thus, they have a view that Athletics is a sport in crisis, with drug problems and poor Athletes. Nothing could be further from the truth. Perhaps we are too busy to communicate the correct image to the general public. Another thing that we are poor at communicating to the general public is what options there are for young people to participate in the sport. This section will let Young People and Parents know what options are available to them. The Running Track directory lists every club in the UK with contact details and maps of how to get there. Sportshall Athletics is also available through clubs and schools.
General rules on when (age wise) to start: Athletes should not start before 9 years old and then should only train in a "running club" environment where fun is all that matters, they should only train once per week or on short courses in the holidays. It may be better to consider Gymnastics until they are 10 years old. UK athletics is about to introduce a scheme covering 3 year olds and upwards. This will have fun and participation at the heart as well as an emphasis on each child being given attainable targets. At the age of 10, most clubs will run induction schemes or Startrack courses specifically aimed at letting young people "have a go" at variety of events. Competition in the under 11 age group is usually participative and not competitive, although there are many Parents who are new to the sport and bring with them attitudes that should be left at the football stadium of swimming baths - they soon learn and by the time athletes are competing in the U13 age group athletics is one of the most polite and pleasant sports in the World. There is also Sports Hall Athletics that young people can participate in from the age of 10 years upwards and you may wish to consider joining a club which participates in Sports Hall Athletics as well as "Track and Field" to broaden your opportunities. The more competitive side comes out for the very young in Cross Country which many clubs focus on....even at age 10! Athletics is one sport where young people can join in from any age. Many do not start until 11-13 years of age. Some start as late as 18 and even into adulthood. There is a very active Veteran section at every age group and at most major club meetings.
Athletics has different age groups from other sports at Club competition level and the following is the rule outside school athletics:
|
