Running Rubber Tracks: Features

Rubber tracks are are popular running surfaces now-a-days. Earlier, the normal grass surfaces were used as the racing tracks but over the years the style, make and model of the running tracks have changed a lot. The humble beginning from grass first transformed to cinder and then from there to synthetics (rubber and polyurethane). Below mentioned are the features of rubber running tracks. Have a look:

Easy to Maintain
Rubber tracks are a lot more easier to maintain as compared to the traditional running tracks. It is so because the rubber tracks are weather proof unlike the grass or cinder running tracks. These do not get effected by rains, hailstone or heat.

Environmental Concerns
During the initial period of rubber track introduction, people criticized and raised a concern over the inhalation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The crumpled rubber on the rubber tracks was said to have the harmful VOCs but as per a study published by F.H. Change of the National Cheng Kung University in 1999, The VOCs released by the synthetic running tracks or rubber tracks are quite equal and ineffective as the VOCs in the environment.

Running Performance
As per the research by Amy E. Kerdok of Harvard University, the stiffness of the ground can directly affect the running economy of the racer. The famous 'They Physics of Sports' by Angelo Arementi says that optimum softer tracks like rubber ones can enhance the running economy of a racer by two to three percent.
Injured Players
Rubber tracks render advantage to the racers who have returned after injuries or fractures as running on a rubber track is much easier, given its softness. Doctors too recommend running on rubber tracks rather than on the concrete or asphalt surfaces to avoid further injuries.

Training Purpose
With rubber tracks it is feasible to change direction after every two three laps to avoid strain on muscles. Incidentally, the muscles get unevenly strained while taking continuous turns on the track.