Sprinting on a Treadmill

Introduction For many athletes, the treadmill is not the first piece of equipment that comes to mind when they think about sprint training.  However, sprinting on a treadmill can offer several advantages, such as convenience, accessibility, and the ability to easily adjust and monitor speed and incline. In this guide, I’ll explore the benefits of […]

Introduction to Force-Velocity Curves

Introduction One concept that has held significant importance in the domain of strength and conditioning, particularly in relation to sprinting and overall athletic performance, is the Force-Velocity Curve. The Force-Velocity Curve is a fundamental principle in biomechanics that illustrates the inverse relationship between the force that a muscle can produce and the velocity at which […]

Intro to Force Generation and Transmission in Sprinting

Introduction Force, in the context of sprinting, is the power that propels an athlete forward. It is generated through the muscles in the legs and is transmitted through the feet into the ground, driving the sprinter forward. The more efficiently this process takes place, the faster and more powerful the sprint. Understanding this force generation […]

Will Jogging Slow Down my Sprinting?

Introduction: Understanding the Interplay of Endurance and Explosiveness Traditionally, endurance and explosiveness have been viewed as two ends of a spectrum, with the understanding that training for one could potentially undermine the other.  This concept, known as the ‘interference effect,’ suggests that the physiological adaptations that occur in response to endurance training may hinder the […]

The Stretch-Shortening Cycle (SSC) for Athletes

Introduction In the realm of sports and athletics, one concept has a huge impact on performance, yet remains largely misunderstood – the Stretch-Shortening Cycle (SSC). SSC is a muscle action that capitalizes on the ‘elastic’ properties of muscles and tendons to generate increased force.  Imagine a spring: it’s first stretched out, and when released, it […]

Does Sprinting Build Fast Twitch Muscle?

Introduction In the world of fitness, different exercises are known to cater to specific goals. Whether it be endurance, strength, agility, or speed, there’s an exercise regimen tailored to meet these objectives. One such exercise that has been the focus of many fitness enthusiasts and athletes is sprinting. The reason? It’s incredible potential in building […]

Enhancing Athletic Performance with Post-Activation Potentiation

Introduction While undergoing my own sprint training, I observed a recurring trend where my top performances consistently occurred after a day on which I engaged in a small amount of resisted sprint training. Over time, I came to understand that this phenomenon is referred to as Post-Activation Potentiation (PAP). In its simplest terms, Post-Activation Potentiation […]

The Role of Arm Action in Sprinting

Introduction Sprinting is a demanding athletic activity that requires power, speed, and technique. While many people focus primarily on leg strength and stride, the role of arm action in sprinting is often underestimated. A well-coordinated arm swing can significantly contribute to a sprinter’s overall performance. The arms during sprinting primarily work to counteracts the rotational forces […]

The Pros and Cons of Sprinting Barefoot

Introduction Sprinting is a fundamental aspect of many sports and athletic activities, emphasizing speed, agility, and power. Footwear plays a crucial role in the world of sprinting, with new developments in this area frequently happening. However, the traditional approach to athletic footwear has been challenged in recent years, with a growing interest in barefoot sprinting for […]

Sprinting Techniques without Blocks

Introduction A strong start is crucial in sprinting, as it sets the tone for the entire race and can significantly impact an athlete’s overall performance. Traditionally, starting blocks are used to provide sprinters with a stable platform to push off from, allowing them to maximize their power and explosiveness.  However, there may be situations where […]