BIOMECHANICS OF THE SPRINT START

Many variables have been studied pertaining to the block sprint start. Research suggests that the adoption of a medium block spacing is pref erred, with front and rear knee angles in the set position approximati ng 90 and 130 degrees, respectively, with the hips held moderately hig h. The sprinter must be capable of developing a high force rate combin ed with a high maximum force, especially in the horizontal direction. This ability to create high force underlies other important indicators of starting performance such as minimum block clearance time, maximum block leaving Velocity and maximum block leaving acceleration. Once t he sprinter has projected him/herself from the blocks at a low angle ( 40 to 45 degrees) relative to the ground, the following 2 post-block s teps should occur with the total body centre of gravity ahead of the c ontacting foot at foot strike to minimise potential horizontal braking forces.