Cross Country

The history of cross country began in England in the early 1800s. Schools used cross country as part of their exercise program for physical education. They started as a two-mile steeplechase in Oxford. Years later, another form of cross-country was developed with the addition of 'hare and hound' races. These, however, did not last long before they were discontinued.

Cross country running was brought to the United States in 1878 by William vosburgh. It started as just training for summer track and field athletics, but developed into a formal and very popular sport in the United States. Its popularity in the United States was not enough to keep it in the Olympics; however, as it was dropped from the schedule in 1924 because they felt it was not an appropriate summer sport. Even though boys cross country had been going on for many years, it wasn't until 1960s that women were finally allowed to run in any cross country race thanks to the International Amateur Athletic Foundation.

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High school cross country has gained much popularity through the years. Coaches occasionally build a form of 'home track' where their cross country runners can practice for the sport so they can be competitive with other runners in other schools. Training for cross country often takes months of hard work and dedication. The athletes have to build their bodies up to top performance level before the can successfully compete. The average cross country run is anywhere from 2 to 5 miles long.

There are some helpful cross country tips for athletes such as to get the correct cross country running shoes. You are spending the entire time on your feet, so it's imperative that your feel get the support they need. Many cross country runners get cross country spikes so they are assured of the correct traction in certain running conditions. Many stores sell cross country shoes or cross country spikes and will help fit you with the type of shoes you need to do the best you can and keep your feet healthy.

he diet you keep plays a large part in the health of the athlete such as maintaining a low fat, high-carb diet. Above all, always drink plenty of water to avoid getting dehydrated.

There are many different cross country logos to represent the sport. The most common one is a group of runners running. The cross country logo is used on athletic apparel for competitors in cross country meets as well as your choice of athletic apparel.

There are many famous cross country quotes around with a very fitting one being, "There is no glory in practice, but without practice, there is no glory".