Starting Aim – development of max horizontal velocity Achieved by placing body in best biomechanical position to apply force
Types of Sprint Starts Aim to develop max impulse Impulse = Force x Time Distance between blocks – bullet (<30cm), medium (30-50cm), elongated (>50cm) Medium – best combination of body position to develop force and time on blocks
Pedal Angle/Foot Placement Stretch Shortening Cycle Front Block - >45 deg Front Spikes in ground Rear Block – low as flexibility allows (c35 deg) Foot position depends upon pedal height
Set Position Shoulders over hands – elbow’s not locked Hips above shoulders Flat back – neutral head position Lower legs c45 degree Front knee 90 – 110 degree Rear knee 120 – 135 degree Body weight evenly on feet and hands Hold breath/tighten stomach muscles
After the Gun Focus on motor task – front arm/rear leg Hips projecting forwards not up Arms above parallel Front arm – forearm lead Rear arm – straight arm sweep back Low rear heel recovery c45 degree take off angle
Determining Best Start Position for your Athlete Fit the biomechanical model Time to 10m Changes with strength/growth