Should You Train On Running Tracks? (Pros & Cons)

Recently, I ran my first track session in over two years. Back then, when I was using the track regularly, my training was heavily focused on speed work—and that period led to some of my biggest personal bests, including a sub-3-hour marathon and a 17:44 5K.

In 2025, speed took a bit of a back seat as I shifted my focus toward the 100-mile ultra-marathon distance. Now, heading into 2026 with five road marathons planned, I’m turning my attention back to rebuilding speed.

Returning to the track after such a long break got me thinking about its role in training. What is the track really best used for? When should you incorporate it? What are the benefits—and the drawbacks? And is track running actually essential for a well-rounded training plan?

In this video, I explore the pros and cons of track running and whether it truly deserves a place in my marathon training going forward. I hope you find it useful, and thanks for watching! :)

My running gear:
Road shoes (Mount to Coast R1s) - https://uk.mounttocoast.com/products/... Trail shoes (Mount to Coast T1s) - https://global.mounttocoast.com/en-gb...
Hybrid road / gravel / trail shoes (Mount To Coast H1s) - https://global.mounttocoast.com/en-gb...
For Mount To Coast products, use code CRAIG10 at checkout for a 10% discount : )

Alternate trail shoes - https://amzn.to/3Nk5HtY
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