Story By Athlete - Neva Jansen
Why Track and Field and Sport Are Vital
Whether you participate in a team sport or a solo sport, being active is vital for physical health and emotional well-being. The benefits are wide-ranging. Physically, sport can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Emotionally, sport provides something equally powerful — it helps release serotonin and endorphins, the feel-good hormones that lift mood and support mental health.
For young athletes balancing school and everyday challenges, sport offers more than just fitness. It provides a positive outlet, a way to switch off from school pressures, and a chance to recharge. Track and field, in particular, can become a space where you focus on yourself, your goals, and your progress.
The Benefits of a Solo Sport Like Track and Field
Team sports are excellent for developing social skills, building friendships, and learning how to work together. However, a solo sport such as track and field brings unique advantages. Competing in athletics allows you to take complete ownership of your performance. The results you achieve are due to your effort, commitment, and preparation.
This independence builds self-confidence and resilience. In a team sport, you might play well but still lose if your teammates underperform. In track and field, the results are an outcome of your training, which can be incredibly rewarding. It forces you to develop skills such as problem-solving and perseverance, as there is no one else to rely on. These qualities are just as valuable off the track as they are on the track.
Why Track and Field Stands Out
While all solo sports can benefit young athletes, track and field are among the best choices. Athletics is not one event but a collection of disciplines, meaning there is something for everyone. From sprints and hurdles to distance running, long jump and pole vault to shot put and discus, track and field caters to a wide range of abilities, interests, and body types.
This variety makes track and field an inclusive sport where athletes can experiment, discover their strengths, and keep progressing. For example, someone who enjoys explosive movements might thrive in sprints or throws, while another athlete may prefer the endurance challenge of long distance. Track and field also allows athletes to switch events over time, keeping the journey fresh and engaging.
Most importantly, athletics develops qualities that shape you as a person. Perseverance, resilience, and determination are part of every training session and competition. Track and field teaches you to keep going when things are difficult and to problem-solve when challenges appear. These lessons go beyond sport and help in education, careers, and everyday life.
My Case for Track and Field
Sport in any form is valuable, but track and field is one of the best routes for young athletes looking to challenge themselves. It offers variety, independence, and the chance to own your performance fully. It can improve physical health, boost mental well-being, and build life skills that go far beyond the athletics track.
Choosing track and field over a team sport is not about dismissing the benefits of football, rugby, or netball. Instead, it is about recognising the unique opportunities that athletics provides. With so many events to choose from and such valuable qualities to gain, track and field is a sport that truly has something for everyone.
