Is it bad etiquette to run CLOCKWISE around a track?

Question

My left knee is my bad one, so running counter-clockwise around a track (as most track policies seem to expect) puts more wear and tear on the inside (left) knee.

Would it be improper to run clockwise around my local track? I never see anyone doing that. Thanks for the help.

Answer 1

Check to see if it ever changes direction, I know that at the track that I run at the track direction changes everyday

Answer 2

No, as long as it's no crowded.  I usually switch it up when I'm at the track (your suppose to), go 4 laps one way the reverse it for 4 more.

Answer 3

Clockwise is good!  All running meets/events go clockwise, and the folks that maintain the track prefer to have casual joggers run in the opposite direction (deals with wear and tear of the track).

Also run on the outer loop. Less likely to clash with someone, and again, less wear and tear (the inside track gets eaten up).

Answer 4

You should run tight "s" patterns to strenghen the knee

and clockwise is only bad if you're sharing the track

Answer 5

Walk don't run and save your joints.  add 10 min. to your time and you will burn just as many calories.

  There are five times the knee surgery with runners over walkers.  You are all ready finding out what I'm talking about first hand....Daaa

  You are also risking hip and ankle joints not to mention stressing your insides....You runners,   Ow- my.

Answer 6

Well, when I go with my boyfriend to the track, he always alternates, because he said it makes him feel more level and likes to run both ways against the wind.

Says it helps him practise dodging too. :p As long as you're the one doing the moving, and it isn't too busy anyway, you should be fine.

Why not ask everyone else on the track to go that way? Go there early and start running that way, and everyone else will probably copy you.

Answer 7

I can't say it is any rule of etiquette, but when I was doing speed work THE NATURAL THING for me to do when I ran clockwise was to use the outer edge of the track rather than the inside.  I think this applies regardless of which direction is designated for that day.

I believe the inside lanes of the track should be reserved for those running fastest in the proper direction.  Those running slower should move outward away from the inside lanes so as not to inhibit the faster runners.  Then, those who choose to run in the opposite direction should use the far outside lanes.

Good Luck