Physics of Running (Part III)

My previous post was about pendulums and how they relate to the physics of running. Today, i would be talking about the proper sprinting techniques from head to toe! :) First of all, you have three phases, the starting phase, the acceleration phase and the maximum-speed phase.

The Starting Phase
To be a good sprinter for distances such as 100m, you must be able to have a quick start. To be able to have a quick start, your weight must be equally distributed over your hands and feet. When the gun is shot, your forward leg pushes the ground while straightening the other leg causing your body to be in a striding position. Push hard with both hands and stay in a stride position.

The Acceleration Phase
It is known that all sprinters are given this tip, which is to stay in low stride position for about 20m. After 20m, you should slowly get up into your normal running position. When you are in your normal running position, all you need to do is relax your neck and shoulder muscles and keep your eyes towards the finishing line.

The Maximum-Speed Phase

When running, both your legs should touch your butt, and you should only be running on the balls of your feet. That is when you know that you are using all the energy you have.

Your hands should be swinging up to your shoulder's height and stammering back until your fingers are at your pockets. Your neck, shoulders, and head should still be relaxed with your mouth slightly opened.


Shoulders/Head
Keep your shoulders & head relaxed to avoid lateral rotation. Lateral rotation means to turn away from the midline of the body.

Hips
Keep your body upright. However, allow your hips to rotate as it is a natural thing.

Knees
Allow your knees to push forward and reach up high as this would generate more power. How? It would allow you to have longer strides. Therefore, covering more distance.

Feet
Your foot should be underneath your body, not in front and you should be running with the balls of your feet.

Arms
Your arms should be loose and moving in a 90 degree position. It should swing forward, stopping when your fingertips reach your pockets.

Heels
Heels should not be on the ground when running.

Now, you all know the techniques for sprinting, so you use it for the upcoming sports day!!