9781422274828

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CHAPTER

RUNNING

Introduction In Olympic sprinting events, speed is absolutely the name of the game. Milliseconds count and can mean the difference between a gold or silver medal—or no medal at all. How do runners generate and maintain speed during these events? Take a guess: Physics is involved.

Sprinters use both horizontal motion and vertical motion. Techniques they use can either work for or against them, so how do runners gain a competitive edge? The first opportunity is at the starting blocks . Athletes crouch down into the kneeling position in the starting blocks before each sprint event. Have you ever wondered why this position is even necessary? It is because this position helps the athlete generate force in

The starting blocks are designed to give sprinters a stable base to push off from. They were once actual wooden blocks, but now are made of metal and are equipped with sensors and a loudspeaker.

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