includes the different track and field events.
The track and field
ATHLETICS
INTRODUCTION
Athletics, also known as track and field, is a popular
sport that encompasses a wide range of competitive events
involving running, jumping, throwing, and walking. It is one of
the oldest forms of organized sports, with roots dating back to
ancient civilizations. Athletics is widely practiced at both
amateur and professional levels and is a fundamental
component of major sporting events such as the Olympic
Games.
The term "athletics" is derived from the Greek word "athlos,"
meaning contest or competition. The sport is characterized by
its diverse events, each requiring a unique combination of
physical abilities, techniques, and strategies. These events are
categorized into two main groups: track events, field events,
Track Events: Track events involve running on a
circular or oval track and can be further classified into sprints,
middle-distance, long-distance, hurdles, and relays. Sprints
typically cover short distances, such as 100m, 200m, or 400m.
Middle-distance events range from 800m to 1500m, while long-
distance events include races like the 5000m and 10,000m.
Field Events: Field events comprise a variety of
activities, such as jumping and throwing. Jumping
events include the long jump, high jump, triple jump,
and pole vault. Throwing events consist of shot put,
discus, hammer throw, and javelin throw. The goal in
these events is to achieve the maximum distance or
height.
Athletics requires a combination of speed, strength, endurance,
agility, and precision. Athletes undergo rigorous training to
improve their performance in specific events, focusing on
technique, conditioning, and mental preparation. The sport
promotes healthy competition, teamwork, discipline, and
sportsmanship.
Throughout history, athletics has played a significant role in
various cultures and has become the centerpiece of major
sporting competitions. The Olympic Games, which originated in
ancient Greece and were revived in the modern era, showcase
athletics as a cornerstone event, drawing athletes from around
the world to compete at the highest level.
HISTORY
The term Athlete, origininated from 2 Greek word Athlos,
and Athlon which means a contest, and prize which bounded
together to make the word. As origin was told, the meaning of
an Athlete is "One who competes for a prize".Formalized track
and field was first recorded at the Ancient Olympic Games of
776 BC in Olympia, Greece.
Athletics is a group of sport that embodies walking.
Track and fields, road running, cross country running and race
walking was the most common types of Athletic competitions.
The results and winners are decided by the finishing position
and measurements.
MIDDLE AGES
A well-organized amateur footrace was held in
England, during 1825. Later, in 1861, the West London Rowing
Club hosted, the first open meet to all amateurs. The Amateur
Athletic Club (AAC), was founded in 1861. They organised
the first English Championship. The Amateur Athletic Club
(AAC), yielded the governing power to the Amateur Athletic
Association (AAA) in 1880 and conducted, the First Annual
AAA championship.
The history of track and field mainly revolves around
the Olympic Games.Also, there are many international events
such as Common Wealth Games.Asian Games, etc that
events in the United States are reported to be started way back
in 1860.As the time progressed, many new events were
added.In 1913, the International Amateur Athletics
Federation (IAAF), track and field's first international
governing body, was formed. Amateurism was firmly
established as an Olympic ideal.
One of the biggest milestones for the development
of the Athletics came back in 1896 at the Summer Olympic
Games. In those Games in Athens, track and field together with
a marathon comprised the majority of the sporting events at
that Games. Besides that, those Games are also important
because it's the first time to introduced the metric
measurement in the track and field competitions.
Jim Thorpe was stripped of his track and field
medals from the 1912 Olympics after it was revealed that he
had taken expense money for playing baseball, violating
Olympic amateurism rules, before the 1912 Games. His
medals were reinstated 29 years after his death. Women
became part of the athletics only after women's sport
movement organized Women's World Games back in
1921.Alice Milliat argued for the inclusion of women at the
Olympics, but the International Olympic Committee refused.
She founded the International Women's Sports Federation in
1921.
After athletics gained more media coverage and
since it became appealing for big companies the amateur
statues of the athletes were dropped in favor of the
professionalism. Officially, in 1982, International Amateur
Athletic Federation abandoned the notion of amateurism and it
became the organization of professional athletes. Following
that, the next year marked the first year in which the first IAAF
World Championship in Athletics was held and from that
moment, the popularity of athletics and athletes continued to
grow and today they are among the most respected athletes in
any sport.
RUNNING EVENTS
Short Distance or Sprints
A sprint is a short running race. In a track and field competition
there are generally three different sprint distances: 100m,
200m, and 400m. The original Olympic event, the stadion race,
was a sprint of around 180m.
Sprinters should remain relaxed while running and move their
arms in a straight back and forth motion. They should be
focused on their lane and the track at the start and the finish
line for the last half of the race or so
Middle Distance
The middle-distance races are the 800m, the 1500m, and the 1
mile long runs. These races require different skills and tactics
to win than the sprints. They rely more on endurance and
pacing than just pure speed. Also, the runners don't stay in a
single lane for the entire race. They start out in staggered
lanes, to make the distance the same for each runner, but the
race soon becomes open with no lanes and the runners must
to pass around each other to gain the lead.
Long Distance
There are three main long distance races: the 3000m, the
5000m, and the 10,000m races. These races are similar to the
middle distance races, but the emphasis is even more on
correct pacing and endurance.
Hurdles
A hurdles race is one in which obstacles are placed at intervals
along the track that the runners must jump over on their way
the finish line. Typical hurdle races are the 100m and 400m for
women and 110m and 400m for men. Timing, footwork, and
technique are key in wining hurdles events. Of course you still
need to be fast, but jumping the hurdles in stride without much
slowing down is how to win in the hurdles.
Relays
Relay races are where teams of runners compete against each
other. There are typically 4 runners and 4 legs to the race. The
first runner starts with the baton and runs the first leg handing
off to the second runner. The handoff must typically take place
within a given area of the track. The second then hands off to
the third and the third to the fourth. The fourth runner runs the
final, or anchor, leg to the finish line. Common relay races are
the 4x100m and the 4x400m.
JUMPING EVENTS
Long Jump
Long jump is a track and field athletic event in which athletes
attempt to jump as far as possible in a single leap, landing in a
sandpit. The objective is to cover the greatest horizontal
distance while adhering to certain rules and techniques. Long
jump requires a combination of speed, power, technique, and
coordination. Athletes must also be mindful of their approach
and takeoff to ensure they achieve the best possible distance.
Proper training and coaching are crucial to excel in this event,
and athletes often focus on sprinting and plyometric exercises
to improve their performance.
Triple Jump
Triple jump, also known as the hop, step, and jump, is a track
and field athletic event in which athletes attempt to cover the
greatest horizontal distance in three successive phases: the
hop, the step, and the jump. Triple jumping requires a unique
combination of speed, power, coordination, and precise
technique. Athletes must master the transitions between the
hop, step, and jump phases to achieve the best distance.
Training includes sprinting, plyometrics, strength exercises,
and specialized practice in the three phases of the triple jump.
Coaching and proper technique are essential for success in
this event.
High Jump
High jump is a track and field athletic event in which athletes
attempt to clear a horizontal bar set at varying heights without
knocking it down. The goal is to clear the bar at the greatest
height possible. High jump requires a combination of speed,
power, technique, and flexibility. Athletes must practice and
refine their chosen takeoff technique and develop strong core
and leg muscles. Training often includes drills, jump-specific
exercises, and practicing different jump heights. Proper
coaching is essential to master the intricacies of high jump
technique and to improve one's performance.
Pole Vault
Pole vault is a track and field athletic event in which athletes
use a flexible pole to propel themselves over a horizontal bar
set at various heights. The objective is to clear the bar at the
greatest height possible. Pole vaulting is a highly technical
event that demands a combination of speed, strength,
technique, and agility. Athletes require extensive training to
develop their skills and must work closely with coaches to
refine their technique and progress to higher heights. Success
in pole vaulting also relies on selecting the right pole for an
athlete's skill level and mastering the art of the plant and
takeoff.
THROWING EVENTS
Discus
The discus throw is a track and field event where participants
hurl a heavy disc, known as the discus, for distance within a
designated throwing sector. The weight of the discus varies
with the athlete’s level: 1.6kg for high school men, 2kg and
22cm in diameter for college and professional men, and 1kg
and 18cm in diameter for women. The discus can be made
from various materials based on the thrower’s preference and
competition rules. Athletes aim to throw the discus, weighing
between 1 to 2kg, as far as possible while staying within a
circular area with a 2.5m diameter. If the discus lands outside
this zone, the throw is invalid. Each athlete gets a fixed number
of throws, and only their best score counts. The winner is the
athlete who achieves the farthest throw. This sport is played in
both men’s and women’s categories.
Javelin
A throwing event in which participants attempt to throw a
javelin with a metal tip as far as they can.
1. Equipment: The men’s javelin must weigh at least
800g and measure between 2.6m and 2.7m in length,
while the women’s javelin must weigh at least 600g
and measure between 2.2m and 2.3m in length.
2. The Circle: The javelin must be held from the grip &
thrown overhand i.e over the athlete’s upper arm
shoulder.
3. Throwing Techniques: Athletes are prohibited from
turning completely around such that their back faces
the direction of the Javelin throw.
4. Measurement: A javelin throw is considered legal
only if the tip of the javelin lands within the sector of
the javelin throw. Also, the tip of the javelin must strike
the ground before any other part of the javelin.
5. Scoring: The athlete with the longest single legal
throw (over all rounds) is the winner.
Shot Put
Shot put is a field event in track and field athletics where
athletes throw a heavy, metal sphere called a “shot” as far as
possible. Here are the key details:
1. Equipment: The shot weighs around 7.26
kilograms (16 pounds) for men and 4
kilograms (8.8 pounds) for women.
2. The Circle: Athletes stand inside a 7-foot
diameter circle with both feet behind the
circle’s edge.
3. Throwing Techniques: Athletes use either
the glide or rotational technique to generate
momentum before releasing the shot.
4. Release: The shot is thrown from above the
shoulder, and athletes must remain within
the circle until the shot lands.
 5. Measurement: The distance is measured
from the inner edge of the circle to where the
shot first lands.

6. Scoring: Athletes get multiple attempts

(usually around six), with the best throw
counting for scoring.

Shot put is a test of strength, technique, and balance, with the Water Jump
farthest throw determining the winner

Hammer Throw

The hammer, a metal ball attached to a wire, weighs 16lbs for

men and 4kg for women. Both weigh 16lbs and 4kg
respectively. Competitors throw from a 7ft diameter ring into a
34.92-degree sector. The hammer throw is a track and field
event where athletes throw a heavy metal ball attached to a
wire and handle for distance. They spin in a circle within a
throwing circle to build momentum and release the hammer in Javelin Throw Facility
a circular motion. The distance is measured from the circle’s
center to where the hammer lands. Safety measures are
crucial due to the weight and speed of the hammer, and
athletes must follow rules about turns and timing. The winner is
the one who throws the farthest. This event demands strength,
balance, and precise technique and is a captivating aspect of
track and field competitions.

Discus and Hammer Throw Facility

FACILITIES

The standard outdoor track for athletics is a 400-meter running

track, suitable for track and field competitions. Facilities like
sports pitches, stadiums, gymnasiums, and swimming pools
are designated for athletic events, with measurements varying
depending on the activity. These facilities ensure athletes have
a suitable space for competition.

The indoor track for athletes is typically 200 meters long with 6 Pole Vault Facility
running lanes. Unlike outdoor tracks, which are usually 8-lanes
and 400-meters around, indoor tracks vary in size depending
on the venue's space. The running lane width on indoor tracks
can vary between 0.9 to 1.22 meters. These measurements
ensure that indoor tracks provide a suitable space for athletes
to train and compete, while accommodating the limitations of
indoor venues.

Football Pitch Shot Put Facility

High Jump Facility

Standard Track

Long and Triple Jump Facility Finish Line


Pole Vault Landing System
Pole vault is a high-adrenaline track and field event where
athletes use a flexible pole to jump over obstacles. It's one of
two vertical jumps in the sport, requiring skill, technique, and
strength to execute successful jumps.
High Jump Landing System
The high jump is a track and field athletics event where
athletes jump unaided over a horizontal bar without dislodging
it. It requires speed, technique, and agility to clear the bar,
showcasing an athlete's athletic ability and jumping prowess.
LONG/TRIPLE JUMP
The long triple jump is a track and field event involving three
consecutive jumps: hop, step, and jump. It requires speed,
technique, and power, with precision timing and coordination
required for maximum distance and maximum distance.
STEEPLECHASE
A steeplechase race is a track race that takes runners over 28
large, fixed barriers and seven water jumps.
THROW & CONVERSION RING
In track and field, "throw" refers to the throwing events, which
include shot put, discus throw, javelin throw, and hammer
throw. These events involve athletes propelling an object (shot,
discus, javelin, or hammer) as far as possible using different
techniques. The throwing events require strength, technique,
and precision.
SHOT PUT TOE BOARD
A shot put toe board is a rectangular board at the front of the
shot put circle, typically made of wood or synthetic material,
serving as the starting point for the thrower, ensuring equal and
fair competition.
THROW FORM SYSTEM
Throw Form Systems are modular aluminum structures
designed with the intent of easing the installation process while
delivering quality throwing pads.
THROWING CAGE
A throwing cage is a protective structure used in track and field
events like discus, shot put, hammer, and javelin, made of steel
and aluminum, and available in various sizes and
configurations, commonly offered by sports equipment
suppliers like AAE and Gill Athletics.
LANES GATE
Sportsfield Specialties’ rotating lane gates are manufactured
from light weight, structural aluminum tubing and include
ground sleeves with caps for ease of removal and storage. The
lane gates have been designed to be rotated easily into and
out of the flow of traffic with stop bolts every 90 degrees. Each
gate spans approximately three (3) running lanes, minimizing
wear on the most utilized inside track lanes.
HURDLES
Hurdling is the basis of a few track and field events. In the said EQUIPMENTS
events, obstacles or barriers which are called hurdles, are set
to which each athlete must jump over Hurdles - One of a series of upright frames over which athletes
in a race must jump.
CAMERA SUPPORT STAND

Javelin – The word javelin comes from Middle English and it

derives from Old French javelin, a diminutive of javelot,
which meant spear. A light spear thrown in a competitive sport
Camera support posts by Sportsfield Specialties positions the or as a weapon
camera 12′ above the ground to provide a clear and
unobstructed view of the track.

TRACK CURBING

Discus throw- is an event in which the participant throws a

heavy disc, called the discus, into a throwing sector for
All track curbing is manufactured from aluminum tube and distance.
features a unique chevron interlocking design feature for ease
of installation and use. Custom built to your layout and
specifications, all track curbing comes in a series of 20′
numbered straight and radius sections designed to fit your
particular track facility project.

TRACK CROSSING MAT

Hammer- The hammer throw is an event in which the

participant throws a weighted ball on a steel wire for distance.

Track crossing mats from Sportsfield Specialties are

manufactured out of porous and durable polypropylene
geotextile material material with a reinforced vinyl wrapped
galvanized steel chain perimeter for ballast purposes. Standard
width and lengths available. Custom sizes available upon
request. Long jump - Is a track and field event in which athletes
combine speed, strength and agility in an attempt to leap as far
MULTI-PURPOSE TRANSPORTS CARTS as possible from a takeoff point.

Relay Batons - In athletics or track events, a baton is a short

stick that is passed from one runner to another in a relay race.
Sportsfield Specialties offers multi-purpose transport carts for
athletic facilities, suitable for pole vault and high jump event
padding, netting, and loose equipment. Made of aluminum,
lightweight, and durable, they feature 12" swivel caster wheels.
Starting blocks - are a device used in the sport of track and
field by sprint athletes to brace their feet against at the start of
a race so they do not slip as they stride forward at the sound of
the starter's pistol.
Starting Pistol - a special gun used to signal the beginning of
a race. The official fired the starting gun and the runners were
off, also the signal made by a starting gun. As soon as she
heard the starting gun, she took off running.
Running spikes - are ultimately designed to help you run
faster on certain, uneven terrain. By providing extra grip to the
fore foot you can transfer more force forward, using that stick
to push off, improving your stride turnover.
OFFICIALS AND THEIR DUTIES
Track and Field Officials
A track and field official are an individual responsible
for ensuring that competitions and events in the sport of track
and field are conducted fairly, according to the established
rules and regulations. These officials play a critical role in the
smooth operation of track and field meets and events, ensuring
the safety of athletes and the integrity of the competition. Track
and field officials often undergo training and certification
programs to become qualified for their roles. The level of
certification can vary, with more experienced officials often
attaining higher levels and specializing in specific events or
roles. Their dedication and expertise contribute to the
successful and fair conduct of track and field competitions at all
levels, from local meets to international championships.
Referee
A referee is an official responsible for overseeing and
enforcing the rules and regulations of a sports competition. The
specific duties of a referee can vary depending on the sport,
but their primary role is to ensure that the game or match is
conducted fairly, safely, and in accordance with the established
rules. Referees are typically impartial and have the authority to
make decisions, enforce penalties, and maintain order during
the competition. Common sports with referees include soccer,
basketball, American football, rugby, hockey, and many others.
In each of these sports, the referee's role and responsibilities
are tailored to the specific rules and nuances of the game.
Starter
in sports, particularly in track and field and some other
racing events, is an official responsible for initiating the race or
competition by giving the athletes the signal to start. The
starter's role is critical in ensuring that races begin fairly, and
they have several important duties. They must be well-versed
in the rules and regulations of the sport and have a keen eye
for detecting any violations that could impact the integrity of the
race.
Timekeeper
A timekeeper, as the name suggests, is an individual
responsible for measuring and recording the time for various
events, particularly in sports and other timed activities.
Timekeepers play a crucial role in ensuring that accurate
timings are recorded for races and competitions. The role of a
timekeeper is critical in many sports, especially those that rely
on precise time measurements, such as track and field,
swimming, cycling, and athletics. Accurate timing is essential
for determining winners and record-breaking performances.
Timekeepers are expected to be focused, detail-oriented, and
skilled in using timing equipment to provide fair and reliable
results for competitive events.
Safety Officer
Safety officers in track and field play a vital role in
preventing accidents, responding to injuries, and providing a
safe environment for athletes to compete and for spectators to
enjoy the event. Safety is a top priority in all sports, including
track and field, to protect the well-being of all participants.
Medical Officer
A medical officer in track and field is a healthcare
professional responsible for overseeing the medical aspects of
athletic events and ensuring the well-being of athletes, officials,
and spectators. The role of a medical officer in track and field is
critical to maintaining the health and safety of participants.
They work in collaboration with other event officials, safety
officers, and medical personnel to ensure that immediate
medical attention is available when needed and that all
participants are provided with appropriate care in the event of
injuries or medical conditions.
The Course Officer
It shall be responsible to the Referee for the correct
marking of the course, turn buoys and intermediate stages.
Also, ensure the start and finish areas are correctly marked
and all equipment has been correctly installed and, where
applicable, is in working order. The Course Officers shall
ensure each competitor is identified correctly with their race
number.
The Announcer
Announcers help maintain the schedule and
announce results, not a horse race. Their job is to give relevant
information in the fewest words possible with minimum
disruption of attention from the competition itself.
The Recorder
The primary role of the Recorder is to capture results
from our weekly competition program in the Centre’s athletics
management system (Results).
It verifies results sheets are correctly filled in and signed by the
appropriate officials. Enter all athlete performances into
Results (signing off each as entered) and archive the
hardcopies.
The Observer
Observers are permitted to resolve disputes – if
requested to do so by the players – and may make active calls
related to conduct issues or some objective rules such as time
violations and boundary decisions.
RULES OF THE GAME
GENERAL RULES FOR TRACK EVENTS
1. In hurdle and sprint/running events, starting
blocks are used, featuring adjustable footplates
on a rigid frame. Races like the Olympic hurdles,
running, and sprints begin with the Starter’s gun,
following the commands “On your marks” and
“Set.” Once all athletes assume the set position,
the race officially starts with the firing of the gun.
In the 100m, women’s 100m hurdles, and men’s
GENERAL RULES FOR FIELD EVENTS
110m hurdles, athletes line up side by side.
However, in the 200m, 400m, and 400m hurdles,
where curves are involved, runners start in
staggered positions.
A. False Starts: If a sprinter begins running before the
starter’s gun is fired, it’s considered a false start. The first false
start leads to disqualification.
B. Lanes: In Olympic sprint and hurdle races, runners must
stay in their assigned lanes, which are 4 feet wide. If they run
outside their lane without gaining an advantage, they won’t be
disqualified. However, if another runner is obstructed, they may
be disqualified.
C. The Finish: The winner is the athlete whose torso (not
head, arms, legs, etc.) crosses the finish line’s edge first.
D. Negotiating Hurdles: Athletes must clear hurdles without
trailing a foot or leg below the top of the hurdle; otherwise, they
face disqualification.
2. Middle Distance Rules
A. Start: With all individual races 800m and
longer, there are no starting blocks; runners
begin in an upright position, their hands
prohibited from touching the ground. The
starting command for these races is “On your
marks.” Once all athletes are at the mark, the
Starter’s gun is fired, officially starting the
race. An 800m race comprises eight runners,
each in his or her own lane for the staggered
start; in the 1500m and steeplechase, which
have up to 12 runners, a group start is used.
B. Lanes: In the 800m, all runners must stay
within their assigned lanes through the first
turn, after which they break for position to the
inside lane. In the 1500m and steeplechase,
there are no lane assignments and runners
jockey for position from the start.
3. Middle Distance
A. Start: Mass starts are used in distance
races. If there are more than 12 competitors,
they can be split into two groups. One group,
with about 65% of the runners, starts from
the regular start line, while the other group
begins from a separate start line on the outer
half of the track, running on the outer half
until they clear the first bend.
B. Lanes: In Olympic distance races, there are
no lane assignments, allowing runners to
break for position right from the start.
4. Race Walking
A. Walking is a form of competitive walking that
is governed by specific rules and regulations.
B. Athletes participating in race walking must
maintain contact with the ground at all times
and have a straight leg upon contact until the
leg is vertical.
C. Failure to comply with these rules can result
in penalties or disqualification.
D. Walking requires a unique walking
technique that emphasizes speed and
efficiency while maintaining contact with the
ground at all times.
E.
 Standing Long Jump ‐ The Standing Long Jump is
a low level jumping event. The Athlete must be
stationary at the takeoff line or board with both feet
together. The athlete must jump off of both feet. The
distance is measured to the nearest point the athlete
touches to the takeoff line or board. Coaches should
teach the athlete to walk forward after the jump out of
the pit. Each Athlete will receive 3 jumps and the
jump of the greatest distance will be the score for that
event.
 Running Long Jump – The running long jump is a
high level jumping event. The Athlete will run down
the runway and jump off of the board, off of one foot,
landing in a sand pit. The spot is marked and
measured at the place the athlete touches the sand
closest to the takeoff board. The athlete will receive 3
jumps and the jump of the greatest distance will be
the score for that event.
  High Jump – The High Jump is a very high level
jumping event requiring a very high level of
training. The basic rules require that the Athlete jump
off of one foot. The athlete cannot do a front flip over
the bar. The opening height of the bar will be 1
meter. If an athlete cannot make a 1 meter jump at
practice they should not be entered in this
event. Each Athlete will receive 3 attempts at each.
 Shot Put
1. Athletes are permitted to enter the
circle from any side. The throwing
circle is open to athletes coming
from any angle. This also entails
climbing up or over the stop board
at the front of the circle.
After completing the throw, an athlete must exit from the rear
half of the throwing circle.
2. The Shot Must Be Put From Close
To The Neck Or Chin.
3. The Throw Must Be Completed
From Within The Circle
4. Athletes Can’t Touch The Top Of
The Stop Board
5. The Shot Must Land Entirely Within
The Sector
 The softball throw is a low-level throwing event with
around 2000 athletes at the Summer Games.
Participants must avoid crossing the throwing line and
receive three throws, with the longest throw
determining their score.

 Mini Javelin
Equipment: The mini javelin is a shorter and lighter version
of the regular javelin.
The tip of the mini javelin is made of rubber or soft material
for safety.
Run-up: Athletes are allowed a short run-up before making
their throw.
Throwing Technique: Athletes should use an overhand
throwing technique to propel the mini-javelin forward.
Release: The athlete must release the mini-javelin
before crossing the throwing arc, which is an imaginary line
extending from the athlete's shoulder to the tip of the javelin.
Safety: Mini-javelin events should be conducted in a
safe environment with proper supervision. Athletes should be
instructed on how to handle the mini-javelin safely and should
avoid throwing it in crowded or unsafe areas.
Fouls: Similar to the regular javelin throw, certain fouls
can occur in mini-javelin.
Rules Regarding Discus Throw
Here are some important rules regarding throw
 The athlete must stand inside a throwing circle that
has a diameter of 2.5 meters.
 The discus used in competitions can be made of
various materials and must have a circular edge with
a metallic rim.
 The throwing circle must be made of concrete or
another suitable material.
 The landing area must be a level and unobstructed
sector marked with netting at a certain height.
 The rules prioritize safety and fair competition,
emphasizing strength, endurance, and technique.
Summary
The Throws: The shot, discus, and hammer are all
thrown from the throwing circle. The javelin is thrown from a
runway. If the athlete steps out of the throwing circle or runway
during the act of throwing, the throw is considered a failed
attempt. A valid throw must fall completely within the marked
landing area. The athlete must not leave the circle or runway
until the implement has touched the ground.
Combined Events Rules
For the most part, the IAAF rules that govern the
Individual track and field events apply to the Corresponding
events in the decathlon and Heptathlon.
Exceptions:
 In the long jump and throwing events (shot Put,
discus, javelin), competitors are Allowed three
attempts only.
 In track events, a false start is assigned only To the
athlete who committed it, and Disqualification only
occurs when the same Athlete false starts twice
BASIC RULES FOR TRACK AND FIELD EVENTS
Track and field events set simple goals requiring
different athleticism types. Each class enforces similar basic
rules, making track meets a symphony of speed, power,
strength, and technical skills. Learning these rules helps us
appreciate the difficulty of each event.
RUNNING AND SPRINTING
Running events include sprints, hurdles, mid-
distance, long-distance, and relay races. Starting blocks are
used for sprints of 400 meters or less and relays with legs of
400 meters or less. A referee instructs runners to get "on your
marks" and start the race. False starts are unqualifying. Short
races require runners to stay inside their lane, while middle-
distance runs may start inside assigned lanes and open at a
certain distance. Longer races may have staggered, or
waterfall starts. Relays require batons handed off inside
designated 20-meter-long zones, and hurdle races feature 19
jumping obstacles during the dash.
THROWING
During a meet, athletes throw various events such as
shot put, discus, javelin, and hammer farther than each other.
Each throw counts towards scoring. The throwers must stay
within the throwing circle until the throw lands, or the attempt is
disqualified. Any debris outside the ring is forfeited. The javelin
event has a runway with a finish line, and the thrower cannot
cross the finish line. Each throw must stay within the inbound
lines of the sector for it to count.
JUMPING
 Jumping events include pole vault, high jump, triple
jump, and long jump. In pole vault and high jump, athletes
compete over a bar, with each other having three qualifying
heights. In high jump, athletes must use one foot. Long jump
and triple jump require three distance jumps into a sand pit,
with the longest one counting towards the score. A running
start is required before a foul line, and triple jump requires a
hop, skip, and jump. Measurement is taken from the shortest
mark left in the sand by any part of the jumper's body.
TECHNICALITIES AND SCORING
The scoring system for each meet varies, typically
using a progressive system where the top three to eight
athletes score points for their teams. Participants must check in
with the course clerk and chief field judge before each event
and must dress properly and maintain good conduct. Refs may
disqualify athletes for violations, swearing, or excessive
celebration. The meeting may limit individual athlete
participation in events.
SKILLS INVOLVED IN ATHLETICS
The 8 Biomotor Abilities
1. Strength
May be defined as: The ability to perform a task
irrespective of time. You are strong if you can complete the
task, the time it takes to do so is not a factor.
Consisting of various types including:
1. Absolute Strength- The maximum amount of force you can
produce irrespective of body weight.
2. Relative Strength - The most force you can produce in
relation to your body weight.
3. Optimal Strength -The amount of strength needed for
maximal performance, any additional strength will not improve
performance.
2. Power
May be defined as: The ability to perform a task
respective of time. Power is strength with time factored in - how
quickly you can perform the same task.
Consisting of various types including:
1. Starting Strength/Power - The ability to generate
maximum force at the beginning of a movement.
2. Reactive Strength/Power - The ability to generate
maximum force between negative (eccentric) and
positive (concentric) movements.
3. Optimal Power - The ability to maintain the
appropriate amount of power from the prime mover
muscle in relation to the stabilizer muscle.
3. Endurance
Maybe be defined as: The ability to perform a task
respective of the duration required to complete it.
Consisting of various types including:
1. Absolute Endurance- The ability to perform a task
with added resistance or a fixed amount of resistance
for all competitors.
2 Relative Endurance- The ability to perform a task
with only body weight or an amount of resistance
based upon the athlete’s body weight.
3 Maximal Speed- The maximal velocity reached at
any given time.
In some sports or positions, there are also three cognitive
types of speed consisting of
1. Anticipation speed- The ability to pre-calculate the
speed needed at any given time.
2. Recognition speed- The ability to recognize cues
given by the movements an opponents and/or
equipment.
3. Reaction speed- The ability to decrease the time
between recognizing a cue and appropriately reacting
to it.
In some sports or positions, there are also three situation
types of speed consisting of
1. Reaction vs opponent speed- The ability to use speed
versus the opponents.
2. Reaction with equipment speed- The ability to use speed
with a piece of athletic equipment used in a game or
competition.
3. Reaction with equipment vs opponent- The ability to use
both speed versus an opponent while using athletic equipment
4. Speed
Maybe be defined as: The ability to increase or
decrease the rate of velocity at which a task is performed or
completed.
Consisting of three Neuromuscular types
1. Acceleration- The ability to increase the velocity
produced by a muscle at any given time.
2. Deceleration- The ability to decrease the velocity
produced by a muscle at any given time.
5. Coordination
May be defined as: The ability to transition between a
series of smaller tasks involved in a larger task.
Consisting of two types:
Intramuscular- The ability of muscles fibers in a single
muscle to activate (communicate). Example: The muscular
activation required for an isolation exercise, such as drawing in
the belly button (Transverse Abdominis) while on your back.
Intermuscular- The ability of muscle fibers in many muscles
to activate (communicate). Example: The muscular activation
required for a compound or sophisticated exercise, such as the
Olympic Snatch (first, second, and third pull).
6. Flexibility
May be defined as: The ability to move a muscle,
connective tissue, and joint within its full physiologically
determined range of motion.
Consisting of these various types:
Active- The amount of flexibility that can be achieved without
the Use of assistance. Example: How high an athlete can
raise their straightened leg up, while on their back.
Passive- The amount of flexibility that can be achieved with
assistance. Example: How high an athlete can raise their
straightened leg up, with the assistance of a coach pushing it
back.
 Dynamic - The amount of flexibility that can be achieved
without assistance, and while in movement . Example: how
high an athlete can kick their straightened leg up while
standing/moving.

7. Agility

May be defined as: The ability to combine

coordination, acceleration and deceleration in the
performance of a task or series of tasks.

Consisting of various types including:

Closed Chain Agility - The agility required while moving away

from a fixed base of support. (the ground is an example the
base of support that an athlete would move "away' from in this
type of agility). Example: The footwork needed by a boxer.

Open Chain Agility - The agility required while moving out

from a fixed base of support. (the core musculature is and
example the base of support that an athlete would move 'out'
from in this type of agility). Example: The head movement,
defense and striking work needed by a boxer.

Optional Skill Agility - The agility required in an unpredictable

and constantly changing environment. Example: The foot work
needed of a soccer player.

Fixed Skill Agility - The agility required in a predictable and

choreographed environment. Example: The footwork needed of
a figure skater.

8. Balance

May be defined as: The ability to control the

proprioceptive, visual, and vestibular mechanisms of the body
in relationship to space, while performing a task.
(proprioceptive = muscles, visual = eyesight, vestibular =
equilibrium/inner ear fluid).

Consisting of two types of balance reflexes:

Righting Reflex - used when the underlying surface is fixed or

stable.

Example: soccer.

Tilting Reflex - used when the underlying surface is moving or

unstable.

Example: surfing. you