It is a device against which runners may place their feet in order to get a faster start at the beginning of a race.
The use of starting blocks enable sprinters to reach maximum speed faster than a typical flat-footed start. However, training is required to use starting blocks.
How to position your starting blocks:
Place the front block two foot-lengths from the starting line and the rear block another foot length between the front and rear blocks. Spacing can be adjusted from there based on comfort and existing strength.
Steps in using the starting block:
Step 1:
Get in front and back your way into the blocks when the starter says, "On your mark."
Step 2:
When the starter says "Set", you should rise to a set position. Your knee joint of the front leg should be 90 degrees and the front leg should be your *stronger leg. However, you should use any leg which is more comfortable. Your rear knee should have an angle of about 120 to 135 degrees. Place your thumbs and the tips of your fingers on the track. Keep your hands shoulder width apart and lift your hips up so they are higher than your shoulders.
Step 3:
When the starter says "Go", drive your lead arm forward and upwards, the other arm backwards. At the same time, your back leg pushes off the block and your body is now placed in the appropriate driving angles at about 30 to 40 degrees to prepare for maximum acceleration.
*How to determine your stronger leg? To determine which leg is stronger, get a helper to come up behind you and lightly push you forward. The leg that you step forward and catch yourself with is your stronger leg.
In my opinion, unless you are a trained athlete, you should avoid using the starting blocks during competition as you may stumble and cause you to slow down instead of helping you reach your fastest speed in the shortest period of time. If it is compulsory to use starting blocks during competition, use it with caution. Overtime with training, i'm sure you'll be able to master the art of using starting blocks. Don't give up! (:
References:
http://www.advantageathletics.com/store/sprints/startingblocks.htm
http://www.athletesacceleration.com/startingblocks.html
Sports and Recreational Activities (Twelfth Edition) by Mood Musker Rink
content and picture were great but it is better to put all the reference to another page
ReplyDeleteContent is useful and helpful for users to know about sprinting.Great pictures taken as it show users what is good and bad.
ReplyDelete