Download Biomechanics of Sprinting

Biomechanics of Sprinting
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Acceleration/Maximum Velocity are the most important parts of the race
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Over half of the sprinters maximum velocity will be used within the first 3 steps
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Sprinting is a series of alternating ground and air phases
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The touchdown point is slightly in front of the COG
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Elite sprinters focus on frontside mechanics
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During frontside mechanics, the gluteus maximus, hamstrings, rectus abdominus and
obliques are the prime movers
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The mechanics go from powerful horizontal force to a vertically directed force
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The COG starts further from the touchdown point and gets closer as maximum velocity is
reached
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Segmented angles in the blocks should be about 90 degrees flexion and 135 degrees of
flexion for the back leg
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Vertical force is required during the start to raise the body
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Minimize Ground Contact Time
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Priority needs to be given to stride rate over stride length
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Focus on Knee Flexion instead of ankle recovery
References:
Hunter,J., Marshall,R., McNair,P.(2005). Relationships Between Ground Reaction Force Impulse and
Kinematics of Sprint-Running Acceleration. Retrieved from: Journal of Applied Biomechanics, 21,
31-43
Kovacs,M. Speed Training: Linear Acceleration. Retrived from: NSCA
Cavagna, G., Komarek, L., Mazzoleni, S. (1971, May) The Mechanics of Sprint Running. Retrieved from:
The Journal of Physiology, 217, 709-721
Mann, R. (2011). The Mechanics of Sprinting an Hurdling.