Short-distance running is different in that it requires you to develop maximum speed in a short period of time. Here every fraction of a second counts, because any delay reduces the chances of winning. To ensure a high pace of movement from the outset, sprinters use a so-called low start.
What determines the effectiveness of a low start when sprinting
The sprint start lays the foundation for the most efficient short distance run. The athlete accelerates from the very first steps. It is at the initial stage of running that it is important to provide yourself with a speed advantage.
Experienced sprinters spend a lot of time practicing the initial phase of the run, achieving a quick descent off the starting line.
At the dawn of athletics, a high start was widespread, in which the athlete's body is almost vertical. Sometimes various tricks were used to increase the initial running speed. For example, runners tried to lean on sticks or picked up small stones. Already in ancient times, athletes used stone slabs to stop at the start.
The low start entered the practice of sprint running only at the end of the 19th century. Today this technique is considered standard because its benefits are obvious. This type of start makes it possible to immediately start running at a fast pace and develop the maximum possible speed on a short segment.
The effectiveness of a low start is determined by the fact that at the moment of descent from the start line, the runner's center of gravity is already far ahead of the pivot point. The correct positioning of the legs is of particular importance. Being at an acute angle to the track, the sprinter's legs provide maximum repulsion force, which cannot be achieved with all the desire at a high start.
Low start technique
When using a low start, so-called starting blocks are used, which are installed at different distances from the starting line. The pad support pads are positioned so that they are inclined relative to the surface of the treadmill at a certain angle.
Well-fitting pads optimally stretch the calf muscles for increased take-off speed and lift-off strength.
Having received the signal to prepare for the start, the sprinter sets his feet on the blocks, while resting on his hands. In this case, the jogging leg is placed on the block that is located farther from the starting line, and the swinging leg is placed on the near one. After that, the runner kneels down on the knee of the leg standing behind and places his hands along the starting line, placing his thumbs inward. It is optimal if the hands are shoulder-width apart. The body is straightened before the start, the head is slightly tilted down.
Hearing the command "Attention!", The sprinter slightly straightens his legs, raises his pelvis and rests his feet on the support pads of the pads, while straining the muscles of the legs. The athlete keeps the torso straight, the gaze is directed downward. At the moment of the starting shot, the runner actively pushes off with both legs, tears off his arms from the track and sharply brings the body forward, helping himself with the movements of bent arms. It is this technique that allows you to get off the start with maximum speed.
