Zzzzoom... Sprinting Question

[TommyD]

Well track season has officially begun. I'm running the open 100m dash on Monday... I haven't gotten an accurate time trial but I know I'm sub-12 sec. right now. I have the speed to be competitive right now but I need a little more of an edge to make sure I win.

I was just wondering if any of you have any tips that I could benefit from while running the 100m dash... any tips would be great... things like stretching, starting block usage, arm movement, leg movement, body movement, etc, etc.

So far the best advice I'm going on is:

"Well how do I win?"
"Run fast."
"What if they're faster than me?"
"Run faster."

Hoooopefully you guys can outdo that one!

By the way... are there any of those energy drinks that would be beneficial to drink before I run for a little extra boost?

[TheBigness]

so you want to win eh?

You always wondered what elbows were for...time to put them to use

[Lil'Lifter]

I also do track I used to sprint so i know a little and can help you out.

For starters you want to run using the "chin, pocket" arm placement. This means that one hand should be near your chin while the other is near where the pocket of your pants would be. This is basic sprinting form.

You also want to keep your arms close to your body and run with your hands open not closed into fists. Keeping your arms close to your body is key for stability.

Lastly this is probably the most important thing. You must run on your toes not flat footed as you would run for a long distance. This incorporates the calves more and should help you run faster. Most sprinting shoes force you to run on your toes because of the way that they are made, but if you wear normal running shoes during practice this should be something to be conscious of.

Good luck running the 100. Will you be doing the 4X100 also?

[TommyD]

Thanks for the tips guys... a well-placed elbow may do the trick...

I'll take into account what you guys have said... and I'll probably be running the 4x1 later this year.

By the way, Lil' Lifter, explain this "olive oil = mass" idea to me... it sounds crazy assed

[Lil'Lifter]

olive oil info here is my thread:

http://www.discussfitness.com/showth...ight=Olive+oil

[TommyD]

Well I ran the 100m dash today... had some ankle problems due to a sprained ankle a suffered a few weeks ago but still managed to pull off a 11.9 sec time. I figure that with a good run and a little luck I can get sub-11.5 this year and get some good places.

[sparky]

Tommy, work on your starts. Stay low out of the blocks and practice, practice, practice them. Also on race day pay attention to the starter. They will probably have the same delay between set and the gun shot all day. Good luck bro and let us know how you do. :

[TheBigness]

You need to run in the 11.4-11 raange to get first at college level, at least around here