Sprint (running)

{{Short description|Running over a short distance in a limited period of time}}

[[File:Usain Bolt 2012 Olympics 1.jpg|thumb|upright|Usain Bolt, world record holder in 100 m and 200 m sprints]] [[File:2014 DécaNation - 400 m 20.jpg|thumb|upright|This sprinter's initial crouch in the blocks allowed her to preload her muscles and channel the force generated from this into her first strides.]] '''Sprinting''' is running as fast as possible over a relatively short distance and period of time. It involves the whole body working as one in order to produce maximum forward thrust through a series of sprinting strides which are taken as quickly as possible.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Jeffreys |first1=Ian |title=Developing Speed |date=2013 |publisher=Human Kinetics |isbn=978-0-7360-8328-7 |pages=25-28 |chapter=Technical Models of Speed}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Dyson |first1=Geoffrey. Revised by B.D. Woods and P.R. Travers |title=Dyson's Mechanics of Athletics |date=1982 |publisher=Hodder & Stoughton |location=London |isbn=0-340-39172-3 |pages=125,127 |edition=8th}}</ref> It is used in many sports that incorporate running, typically as a way of rapidly reaching a target or goal, avoiding or catching an opponent, or intercepting a ball.

In athletics and track and field, '''sprints''' (or '''dashes''') are races over short distances. They are among the oldest running competitions, being recorded at the Ancient Olympic Games. Three sprints are currently held at the modern Summer Olympics and outdoor World Championships: the 100 metres, 200 metres, and 400 metres.

At the professional level, sprinters begin the race by assuming a crouching position in the starting blocks before driving forward and gradually moving into an upright position as the race progresses and momentum is gained. The set position differs depending on the start. The use of starting blocks allows the sprinter to perform an enhanced isometric preload; this generates muscular pre-tension which is channeled into the subsequent forward drive, making it more powerful. Body alignment is of key importance in producing the optimal amount of force. Ideally, the athlete should begin in a 4-point stance and drive forwards concurrently pushing off using both legs for maximum force production.<ref name="100 m – For the Expert">[http://www.iaaf.org/community/athletics/trackfield/newsid=4666.html 100 m – For the Expert]. IAAF. Retrieved on 26 March 2010.</ref> This initial forward thrust is asymmetric in nature usually meaning that the rear foot is lifted sooner while the front foot continues to push off from the front plate.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Freeman |first1=Will |title=Track & Field Coaching Essentials |date=2015 |publisher=Human Kinetics |location=Champaign |isbn=978-1-4504-8932-4 |pages=90–92 |chapter=Skills of the Sprint Event}}</ref> As they come up from their low stance and their posture becomes increasingly upright they continue to thrust forwards in the direction of travel.<ref>{{cite web |title=Biomechanical Performance Factors in the Track and Field Sprint Start: A Systematic Review |url=https://coachathletics.com.au/coaching-education/block-start-athletics-biomechanics |website=Australian Athletics |access-date=20 February 2026}}</ref>

Athletes remain in the same lane on the running track throughout all sprinting events,<ref name=400M>[http://www.iaaf.org/community/athletics/trackfield/newsid=4682.html 400 m Introduction]. IAAF. Retrieved on 26 March 2010.</ref> with the sole exception of the 400 metres indoors. Races up to 100 metres are largely focused upon acceleration to an athlete's maximum speed.<ref name="100 m – For the Expert"/> All sprints beyond this distance incorporate an element of endurance.<ref>[http://www.iaaf.org/community/athletics/trackfield/newsid=4673.html 200 m For the Expert]. IAAF. Retrieved on 26 March 2010.</ref>

==History==  {{See also|History of physical training and fitness}} [[File:Stadion of Nemea.jpg|thumbnail|The ''stadion'' of ancient Nemea, Greece]] [[File:Greek relief of sprinter in start position from pentathlon scene 500 BC (cropped).jpg|thumb|An Ancient Greek relief of a sprinter in the initial starting position. The next stage involved quickly crouching before exploding forward into the opening stride.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Gardinier |first1=E. Norman |title=Greek Athletic Sports and Festivals |date=1910 |publisher=MacMillan |location=London |pages=274-276, Figs. 47-49 |url=https://www.gutenberg.org/files/59952/59952-h/59952-h.htm#fig047 |access-date=26 November 2025}}</ref> Dated 500 BC and currently held in the Glyptothek, Munich.]]

The Ancient Olympic Games were begun in 776 BC. The first 13 editions featured only one event—the stadion race, which was a sprinting race from one end of the stadium to the other.<ref name=Instone>Instone, Stephen (15 November 2009). [https://www.bbc.co.uk/history/ancient/greeks/greek_olympics_01.shtml#two The Olympics: Ancient versus Modern]. BBC. Retrieved on 23 March 2010.</ref> The Diaulos (Δίαυλος, "double pipe") was a double-stadion race, {{circa|{{convert|400|m|abbr=off}}}}, introduced in the 14th Olympiad of the ancient Olympic Games (724{{nbsp}}BC).

Sprinting, and sprint training, in Ancient Greece emphasised the need to be as light-footed as possible while also ensuring that the foot was placed stably. The contemporary Hellenised, Syrian writer Lucian, in his treatise ''Anachasis, or Athletics'', states that:

{{Blockquote|Furthermore, we train them to be good runners, habituating them to hold out for a long distance, and also making them light-footed for extreme speed in a short distance. And the running is not done on hard, resisting ground but in deep sand, where it is not easy to plant one's foot solidly or to get a purchase with it, since it slips from under one as the sand gives way beneath it. We also train them to jump a ditch, if need be, or any other obstacle, even carrying lead weights as large as they can grasp.<ref name="Lucian, vol. 4">{{cite book |last1=Harmon |first1=A. M. |title=Lucian, vol. 4 |date=1925 |publisher=Harvard University Press |location=Cambridge, MA |pages=45–47 |chapter=Anacharsis, or Athletics}}</ref>}}

Training in heavy sand helped the sprinters to develop their technique. As the sand could move awkwardly when they placed their feet it meant that they were in danger of losing their sense of balance. Therefore they had to place their feet more lightly and carefully in order to avoid this happening. With continued practice this developed their ability to be as light-footed and as sure-footed as possible. Jump training, with and without weights, were methods used to develop the light-footedness and explosive power of sprinters and other athletes.<ref name="Lucian, vol. 4">{{cite book |last1=Harmon |first1=A. M. |title=Lucian, vol. 4 |date=1925 |publisher=Harvard University Press |location=Cambridge, MA |pages=45–47 |chapter=Anacharsis, or Athletics}}</ref>

In the middle-ages sprint races were referred to as foot-races. They were a popular pastime and considered to be a worthy pursuit especially for males raised in military professions.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Tomlinson |first1=Alan |title=Dictionary of Sports Studies |date=2010 |publisher=Oxford University Press |location=Oxford |isbn=9780191726859 |chapter=Running}}</ref> Writing in 1801, the sports writer Joseph Strutt stated 'There is no other exercise that has more uniformly met the approbation of authors than running. In the middle-ages, foot-racing was considered as an essential part of a young man's education, especially if he was the son of a man of rank, and brought up in a military profession.'<ref>{{cite book |last1=Strutt |first1=Joseph |title=Sports and Pastimes of the People of England |date=1801}}</ref>

In America in 1691, Sir Francis Nicholson hosted a Virginia athletic games which involved foot-races among its events. These races were partly based on a practice from Britain where aristocrats would race their footmen against each other for entertainment. As betting became more a part of the races, professional runners began to increasingly emerge.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Magness |first1=Steve |title=A Brief History of Track and Field in the US |url=https://www.scienceofrunning.com/2015/11/a-brief-history-of-track-and-field-in-the-us.html?v=47e5dceea252#:~:text=These%20races%20mostly%20occurred%20on,to%20take%20nationwide%20competition%20tours. |website=Science of Running |date=16 November 2015 |access-date=28 August 2025}}</ref>

Writing in 1838, the Hawaiian intellectual, David Malo, described foot-races which were part of traditional Hawaiian culture. The participants were called ''Kukini'', meaning swift-runners, and they trained with task-specific physical training exercises and ate a specialised diet. Malo states 'The runner was first exercised in walking on his toes, without touching the heel of the foot to the ground. Then he was set to running, at first for a short distance at a moderate pace. Finally he was made to run at full speed for great distances. While in training they were denied poi and all soggy, heavy food, but were fed on rare-done flesh of the fowl and roasted vegetables, taro, sweet-potato, bread-fruit, etc.'<ref>{{cite book |last1=Malo |first1=David |author2=Dr. N.B. Emerson |title=Hawaiian Antiquities |date=1903 |publisher=The Hawaiian Gazette |location=Honolulu |pages=288–89 |url=https://hawaiian-grammar.org/resources/Malo-Hawaiian-Antiquities.pdf |access-date=28 August 2025}}</ref> The sprinters had to race from a starting point to a flag on a pole. Bets were placed on the runners by the spectators.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Malo |first1=David |author2=Dr. N.B. Emerson |title=Hawaiian Antiquities |date=1903 |publisher=The Hawaiian Gazette |location=Honolulu |pages=288 |url=https://hawaiian-grammar.org/resources/Malo-Hawaiian-Antiquities.pdf |access-date=28 August 2025}}</ref> These runners were also employed as messengers for civil and military matters.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Henry |first1=Dawn |title=History of the Kukini |url=https://hilo.hawaii.edu/rec/HistoryoftheKukini.php |website=University of Hawaii |access-date=28 August 2025}}</ref>

The first modern Olympic Games started in the late 19th century (Athens 1896)<ref>{{Cite web|title=Athens 1896 Olympic Games|url=https://www.britannica.com/event/Athens-1896-Olympic-Games|access-date=2021-07-27|website=Encyclopedia Britannica|language=en}}</ref> and featured the 100 metres and 400 metres. Athletes started both races from a crouched start (4-point stance). In both the original Olympics and the modern Olympics, only men were allowed to participate in track and field until the 1928 games in Amsterdam, Netherlands.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://olympics.com/en/olympic-games/amsterdam-1928 |title=Amsterdam 1928 |website=Olympics.com |date=25 April 2018 |access-date=9 August 2021 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210805135817/https://olympics.com/en/olympic-games/amsterdam-1928 |archive-date=Aug 5, 2021 }}</ref> The 1928 games were also the first games to use a 400-metre track, which became the standard for track and field.

The modern sprinting events have their roots in races of imperial measurements which were later altered to metric: the 100 m evolved from the 100-yard dash,<ref>[http://www.iaaf.org/community/athletics/trackfield/newsid=4661.html 100 m – Introduction]. IAAF. Retrieved on 26 March 2010.</ref> the 200 m distance came from the furlong (or {{frac|8}} mile),<ref>[http://www.iaaf.org/community/athletics/trackfield/newsid=4677.html 200 m Introduction]. IAAF. Retrieved on 26 March 2010.</ref> and the 400 m was the successor to the 440-yard dash or quarter-mile race.<ref name="400M" />

Technological advances have always improved sprint performances (i.e., starting blocks, synthetic track material, and shoe technology). In 1924, athletes used a small shovel to dig holes to start the race. The world record in the 100-metre dash in 1924 was 10.4 seconds, while in 1948, (the first use of starting blocks) was 10.2 seconds, and was 10.1 seconds in 1956. The constant drive for faster athletes with better technology has brought man from 10.4 seconds to 9.58 seconds in less than 100 years.

Track events were measured with the metric system except for the United Kingdom and the United States until 1965 and 1974 respectively. The Amateur Athletic Association (AAU)<ref>{{Cite news |last=Daley |first=Arthur J. |date=1932-11-23 |title=A.A.U. CONVENTION ADOPTS METRIC PLAN; Yardage Basis of Measurement in Track and Field Dropped in Surprise Move. GOES INTO EFFECT JAN. 1 System Used in Olympics and in Majority of Countries Is Approved Unanimously. BRUNDAGE IS RE-ELECTED Chicagoan Is Named President for Fifth Time -- Various Title Events Awarded. |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1932/11/23/archives/aau-convention-adopts-metric-plan-yardage-basis-of-measurement-in.html |access-date=2025-05-22 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}</ref> decided to switch track and field in the U.S. to the metric system to finally make track and field internationally equivalent.

==Biological factors for runners== Biological factors that determine a sprinter's potential include:

{{Div col|colwidth=22em}} * Height (minor factor){{citation needed|date= August 2019}} * Muscular strength * Adrenaline use * Anaerobic respiration capacity * Breathing * Footspeed * Proportion of fast twitch muscles<ref>Quinn, Elizabeth (2007-10-30). [http://sportsmedicine.about.com/od/anatomyandphysiology/a/MuscleFiberType.htm Fast and Slow Twitch Muscle Fibers] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071121100903/http://sportsmedicine.about.com/od/anatomyandphysiology/a/MuscleFiberType.htm |date=2007-11-21 }} About.com. Retrieved on 2009-02-01.</ref> * Leg length * Pelvic width{{citation needed|date=June 2015}} {{div col end}}

==Competitions== [[File:Start women 60 m Doha 2010.jpg|thumb|Start of the women's 60 m at the 2010 World Indoor Championships]]

===Common contemporary distances===

==== 60 metres ====

* Normally run indoors, on a straight section of an indoor athletic track. * Some of the fastest humans reach their maximum speed around the 60-metre mark. * 60-metres is often used as an outdoor distance by younger athletes when starting sprint racing.

Note: Indoor distances are less standardized, as many facilities run shorter or occasionally longer distances depending on available space. 60 m is the championship distance.

==== 100 metres ==== Source:<ref name="liveabout.com">{{Cite web|url=https://www.liveabout.com/track-and-field-running-events-3259282|title=3 Types of Track and Field Running Events|access-date=2021-07-30|archive-date=2021-07-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210730161731/https://www.liveabout.com/track-and-field-running-events-3259282|url-status=dead}}</ref> * Takes place on the straight of a standard outdoor 400 m track. * Often, the world-record holder in this race is considered "the world's fastest man or woman." * Primarily an outdoor race.

thumb|A 200 m bend

==== 200 metres ==== Source:<ref name="liveabout.com"/> * Begins on the curve of a standard track (where the runners are staggered in their starting position, to ensure that they all run the same distance), and ends on the home straight. * Competed both indoors and outdoors, with only slightly slower times than outdoors.

==== 400 metres ==== Source:<ref name="liveabout.com"/> * Runners are staggered in their starting positions to ensure that everyone runs the same distance. * Competed both indoors and outdoors, with only slightly slower times than outdoors.

[[File:AllysonFelixRelay4x400London2012.jpg|thumb|Allyson Felix, at London 2012 Summer Olympics]]

==== 4 × 100 metres relay ==== Source:<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://olympics.com/en/featured-news/athletics-relay-races-rules-history-world-records-olympics|title=All you need to know about relay races: Rules, history, world records}}</ref> * Runners are staggered in their starting positions to ensure that everyone runs the same distance. * Runners use exchange zones (and, previously, separate acceleration zones which have now been eliminated) to pass a baton

==== 4 × 400 metres relay ==== Source:<ref name=":0"/> * Runners are staggered in their starting positions to ensure that everyone runs the same distance. * Runners use exchange zones to pass a baton. * Typically, the final race at track meets.

===Historical and uncommon distances===

====50 yards (45.72 m)==== The event was a common event for most American students because it was one of the standardized test events as part of the President's Award on Physical Fitness.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.hhs.gov/fitness/index.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170426085123/https://www.hhs.gov/fitness/index.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=April 26, 2017|title=President's Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition (PCSFN)|date=10 January 2017|website=HHS.gov}}</ref>

====50 m==== The 50 metres is an uncommon event and alternative to the 60 metres. Donovan Bailey holds the men's world record with a time of 5.56 seconds and Irina Privalova holds the women's world record with a time of 5.96 seconds.

====60 yards (54.864 m)==== {{main|60-yard dash}} * A rarely run sprinting event that was once more commonplace. The world record time of 5.99 seconds is held by Lee McRae and was set in 1987. The time is often used for American football speed training.

====55 m==== The 55 metres is an uncommon event that resulted from the metrication of the 60 yards and is an alternative to the 60 metres.

====70 yards (64.008 m)==== An extremely rare sprinting event, that was occasionally run in the 1960s. The world record of 6.90 seconds is held by Bob Hayes.

====100 yards (91.44 m)==== * The outdoor standard in the English (imperial measured) speaking world. It was part of the Commonwealth Games up until 1966 and was the premier event in American high school sprinting until the NFHS changed to metric in 1980, now only a secondary distance to the 100 metres. * The unofficial World Record Holder is Jamaican Asafa Powell with a time of 9.07 seconds.

====150 m==== thumb|right|150 metres final at the Manchester City Games 2009 * The informal distance of 150 metres (164.042 yards) can be used to work on a 100 m runner's stamina, or a 200 m runner's speed, and has been used as an exhibition distance. The distance was used in a race between the 1996 Olympic champions, the 100 m gold medalist Donovan Bailey (Canada) and the 200 m gold medalist Michael Johnson (USA). It was to decide which of the two was really the 'fastest man on earth' (see Bailey–Johnson 150-metre race). * The informal distance was used for an exhibition race during the Manchester Great CityGames as part of the 2009 Great Manchester Run (UK). Stars included Triple Olympic Champion Usain Bolt (Jamaica) alongside Ivory Williams (USA), Simeon Williamson (UK), and other international track stars. The female race included 400 m Olympic Champion, Christine Ohuruogu of Great Britain alongside Debbie Ferguson-McKenzie (Bahamas). Bolt ran the distance in a record time of 14.35 seconds.<ref>[http://www.iaaf.org/LRR09/news/newsid=50606.html Bolt runs 14.35 sec for 150m; covers 50m-150m in 8.70 sec!]. IAAF (2009-05-17). Retrieved on 2009-05-17.</ref><ref>{{YouTube|h0d69bXakUo|New World Best over 150m for Usain Bolt from Universal Sports}}</ref>

====Stadion==== [[File:Panathenaic Amphora Sprinters.jpg|thumb|A race scene from Ancient Greece. This drawing is an early 20th Century copy of scene from an Ancient Greek Panathenaic amphora.]]<ref>{{cite book |last1=Gardiner |first1=E. Norman |title=Greek Athletic Sports and Festivals |date=1910 |publisher=MacMillan |location=London |page=281 Fig. 52}}</ref> The stadion, also known as the stade, was the standard short distance sprint in ancient Greece and ran the length of a stadium. However, stadiums could vary in size and there was apparently no definite standard length for them, e.g., the stadium at Delphi measures 177 m and the one at Pergamon 210 m.<ref>Spivey, Nigel, ''The Ancient Olympics'', Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2004, p. 111–112</ref>

====300 m==== * The 300 metres is another informal distance, which could be used to aid a 200 m runner's stamina, or a 400 m runner's speed. Currently, the world's best for this event is 30.69 seconds, set by Letsile Tebogo at altitude in Pretoria, South Africa in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Tebogo breaks world 300m best with 30.69 in Pretoria|url=https://worldathletics.org/news/report/letsile-tebogo-world-300m-best-pretoria|website=World Athletics|date=17 February 2024|access-date=6 June 2024}}</ref> The women's record is 34.41 seconds, set by Shaunae Miller-Uibo in Ostrava, Czech Republic in 2019.<ref>{{cite news|title=Miller-Uibo breaks 300m world best, Lasitskene tops 2.06m and Kirt joins 90-metre club in Ostrava |url=https://www.iaaf.org/news/report/kirt-lasitskene-miller-uibo-ostrava|website=World Athletics|author=Bob Ramsak|date=20 June 2019|access-date=6 June 2024}}</ref> Junior girls in several countries run this distance instead of the 400 metres.

====Diaulos==== {{Multiple image | perrow = 1 | total_width = 250 | align = left | image1 = Fig047 Hoplitodromos start position line drawing Gardinier 1910.png | width1 = | caption1 = A hoplitodromos sprinter in the start position with a trainer. This artistic study of a panathenaic amphora was first published in 1910. From this position the runner will quickly crouch before taking his initial strides forward.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Gardinier |first1=E. Norman |title=Greek Athletic Sports and Festivals |date=1910 |publisher=MacMillan |location=London |pages=274-276, Figs. 47 |url=https://www.gutenberg.org/files/59952/59952-h/59952-h.htm#fig047 |access-date=26 November 2025}}</ref> | image2 = Hoplitodromos Louvre MN704.jpg | width2 = | caption2 = A hoplitodromos race in progress on a panathenaic amphora {{circa|323 BC}}. Louvre Museum. }}

The diaulos was an event contested in the Ancient Greek Olympia that was double the length of a stadion.

As well as standard foot races, in Ancient Greece there was also a sprint race called the hoplitodromos ('armed ''diaulos'''<ref name="Oxford University Press">{{cite book |last1=Scanlon |first1=Thomas F. |title=Sport in the Greek and Roman Worlds: Volume 1 Early Greece, the Olympics, and Contests |date=2014 |publisher=Oxford University Press |location=Oxford |page=213}}</ref>). This required the sprinters to additionally carry a large shield, wear greaves and a helmet. The wearing of greaves was discontinued around 450 BC.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Oakley |first1=John H. |title=A Guide to Scenes of Daily Life on Athenian Vases |date=2020 |publisher=The University of Wisconsin Press |location=Madison |isbn=9780299327248 |pages=134–135}}</ref> Similarly to the diaulos, they ran two stades in length i.e. one stade ending with a 180 degree turn around a post, which led onto the second stade in length back down the track.<ref name="Oxford University Press"/> In the diaulos, each sprinter had an individual post to run around.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Gardiner |first1=E. Norman |title=Greek Athletic Sports and Festivals |date=1910 |publisher=MacMillan |location=London |page=280}}</ref> However, for some hoplitodromos races all of the sprinters ran around a single central post.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Gardiner |first1=E. Norman |title=Greek Athletic Sports and Festivals |date=1910 |publisher=MacMillan |location=London |page=289}}</ref>

==== 4 × 200 metres relay ==== Source:<ref name=":0" /> * Runners are staggered in their starting positions to ensure that everyone runs the same distance. * Runners use acceleration zones and exchange zones to pass a baton

== Equipment ==

=== Shoes === Typically, a sprinter only needs two types of shoes, training shoes and sprinting spikes.<ref>{{Cite web|title=A Beginner's Guide to Running Spikes|url=https://www.runnersneed.com/expert-advice/gear-guides/running-spikes-buying-guide.html|access-date=2021-07-27|website=Runners Need}}</ref>

Sprinting spikes are typically designed to be lightweight, with a minimal cushion on the heels and a plate on the forefoot to keep the runner on the toes of each foot. The spike plate will typically have the maximum number of holes for metal spikes to be inserted to keep a proper grip on the track surface. [https://spikes.insideathletics.com.au/history-of-athletics-spikes/ These metal removable spikes] also come in varying sizes. The spikes typically range from 4 mm to 15 mm and come in different styles. Most facilities have specific requirements for what size and style spikes can be used.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-01-29|title=The Ultimate Track Spike Buyers Guide|url=https://thewiredrunner.com/track-spike-buyers-guide/|access-date=2021-07-27|website=The Wired Runner|language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Starting blocks === Starting blocks are not a necessity but are highly suggested for use in sprinting events. Starting blocks are a piece of equipment that typically consists of foot pads attached to a central rail. The point of using blocks is to help the athlete push themselves further down the track as quickly as possible.

=== Baton === The baton is a required element for any relay race. The baton is passed to each athlete through different exchange zones, with different techniques. Typically, about {{Convert|1|ft|cm|order=flip}} long and {{Convert|1.5|in|cm|order=flip}} in diameter.

=== Timing ===

==== Stopwatches ==== Used typically in training sessions to measure relative times and recovery times. Stopwatches are not always the most accurate way to measure times in a race setting,

==== Fully Automatic Timing / gate systems ==== Fully Automatic Timing (FAT) and gate systems are used to accurately measure races, with results as accurate as up to 1/1000 of a second.<ref>{{Cite web|title=What is Fully Automatic Timing (FAT) for Sports? {{!}} About|url=https://www.finishlynx.com/about-us/what-is-fully-automatic-timing/|access-date=2021-07-27|website=FinishLynx|date=20 November 2012 |language=en-US}}</ref>  

== Governing bodies == As of 2021, World Athletics (WA) <ref>{{Cite web|title=About World Athletics|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/about-iaaf|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org|language=en}}</ref> is the governing body for track and field around the world. Every country that wishes to participate in WA competitions must become a member.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Member Federations|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/about-iaaf/structure/member-federations|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org|language=en}}</ref>

==Rules==

=== Rule differences between governing bodies === Each governing body sets its own rules for how competition is deemed fair.  World Athletics sets the competition rules internationally. The World Athletics rulebook<ref>{{Cite web|title=Book of Rules {{!}} Official Documents|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/about-iaaf/documents/book-of-rules|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org|language=en}}</ref> is broken into 4 separate books.

===The start=== [[File:Start Jeremy Wariner 2007.jpg|thumb|Jeremy Wariner beginning a race from the starting blocks]] Starting blocks are used for all competition sprints (up to and including 400 m) and relay events (first leg only, up to 4x400 m).<ref name=IAAF>[http://www.iaaf.org/download/download?filename=7c4c7e46-8979-453d-a355-a736fdac2281.pdf&urlslug=Competition%20Rules%202012-13 Competition Rules 2012-13], IAAF</ref> The starting blocks consist of two adjustable footplates attached to a rigid frame. Races commence with the firing of the starter's gun.<ref name=IAAF /> The starting commands are "On your marks" and "Set".<ref name=IAAF /> Once all athletes are in the set position, the starter's gun is fired, officially starting the race. For the 100 m, all competitors are lined up side by side. For the 200 m, 300 m, and 400 m, which involve curves, runners are staggered for the start.

In the rare event that there are technical issues with a start, a green card is shown to all the athletes. The green card carries no penalty. If an athlete is unhappy with track conditions after the "on your marks" command is given, the athlete must raise a hand before the "set" command and provide the Start referee with a reason. It is then up to the Start referee to decide if the reason is valid. If the Start referee deems the reason invalid, a yellow card (warning) is issued to that particular athlete. If the athlete is already on a warning, the athlete is disqualified.

===False starts=== {{main|False start#Athletics (track and field)}}

According to the World Athletics (WA) rules, "An athlete, after assuming a full and final set position, shall not commence his starting motion until after receiving the report of the gun or approved starting apparatus. If, in the judgement of the Starter or Recallers, he does so any earlier, it shall be deemed a false start."<ref name="IAAF"/>

The 100 m Olympic gold and silver medallist Linford Christie of Great Britain famously had frequent false starts that were marginally below the legal reaction time of 0.1 seconds. Christie and his coach, Ron Roddan, both claimed that the false starts were due to Christie's exceptional reaction times being under legal time. His frequent false starting eventually led to his disqualification from the 1996 Summer Olympics 100 m final in Atlanta, the US, due to a second false start by Christie. Since January 2010, under WA rules, a single false start by an athlete resulted in disqualification.

In 2012, a new development to the false start rule was added. Because certain athletes could be disqualified for twitching in the starting blocks, but some athletes could make a twitch without the starter noticing and disqualifying the athlete, it was decided that twitching in the starting block while being in the 'set' position would only carry a maximum penalty of a yellow card or a warning. To instantly be disqualified for a false start, an athlete's hands must leave the track or their feet must leave the starting blocks, while the athlete is in their final 'set' position.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Cherry |first1=Gene |title=Twitch or flinch no longer a false start |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-oly-athl-falsestart-adv3/twitch-or-flinch-no-longer-a-false-start-idUKBRE86N18M20120724 |access-date=22 June 2022 |work=Reuters |date=4 July 2012}}</ref>

===Lanes=== [[File:Skyttis athletics tracks.jpg|thumb|Sprint lanes in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden, as seen from the 100 m starting point]]

For all Olympic sprint events, runners must remain within their pre-assigned lanes, which measure 1.22 metres (4 feet) wide, from start to finish.<ref>''2009 USATF Competition Rules'', Rule 160(1)</ref> The lanes can be numbered 1 through 8, 9, or rarely 10, starting with the inside lane. Any athlete who runs outside the assigned lane to gain an advantage is subject to disqualification. If the athlete is forced to run outside of their lane by another person, and no material advantage is gained, there will be no disqualification. Also, a runner who strays from their lane in the straightaway, or crosses the outer line of their lane on the bend, and gains no advantage by it, will not be disqualified as long as no other runner is obstructed.

===The finish=== thumb|The finish of the 1987 East German athletics championships

The first athlete whose torso reaches the vertical plane of the closest edge of the finish line is the winner. To ensure that the sprinter's torso triggers the timing impulse at the finish line rather than an arm, foot, or other body parts, a double Photocell is commonly used. Times are only recorded by an electronic timing system when both of these Photocells are simultaneously blocked. Photo finish systems are also used at some track and field events.

== World records== {| class="wikitable" |+Women's World Records !Discipline !Performance !Competitor !Country !Venue !Date |- |50 metres |5.96 |Irina Privalova<ref name="worldathletics.org">{{Cite web|title=Irina Privalova {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/athletes/russia/irina-privalova-14299012|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org}}</ref> |RUS<ref name="Member Federations">{{Cite web|title=Member Federations|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/about-iaaf/structure/member-federations/europe#RUS|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org|language=en}}</ref> |Madrid (ESP) |9 February 1995 |- |60 metres |6.92 |Irina Privalova<ref name="worldathletics.org"/> |RUS<ref name="Member Federations"/> |Madrid (ESP) |9 February 1995 |- |100 metres |10.49 |Florence Griffith-Joyner<ref name="ReferenceA">{{Cite web|title=Florence Griffith-Joyner {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/florence-griffith-joyner-14359548|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org}}</ref> |USA<ref name="ReferenceB">{{Cite web|title=Member Federations|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/about-iaaf/structure/member-federations/northcentral-americac#USA|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org|language=en}}</ref> |Indianapolis, Indiana (USA) |16 July 1988 |- |200 metres (indoors) |21.87 |Merlene Ottey<ref>{{Cite web|title=Merlene Ottey {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/athletes/slovenia/merlene-ottey-14300206|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org}}</ref> |JAM<ref name="ReferenceC">{{Cite web|title=Member Federations|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/about-iaaf/structure/member-federations/northcentral-americac#JAM|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org|language=en}}</ref> |Lievin (FRA) |13 February 1993 |- |200 metres (outdoors) |21.34 |Florence Griffith-Joyner<ref name="ReferenceA"/> |USA<ref name="ReferenceB"/> |Olympic Stadium, Jamsil, Seoul (KOR) |29 September 1988 |- |400 metres (indoors) |49.26 |Femke Bol<ref>{{Cite web|title=Femke Bol {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/netherlands/femke-bol-14707010|access-date=2023-02-28|website=www.worldathletics.org}}</ref> |NLD |Omnisport, Apeldoorn (NLD) |19 February 2023 |- |400 metres (outdoors) |47.60 |Marita Koch<ref>{{Cite web|title=Marita Koch {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/athletes/german-dem-rep/marita-koch-14349315|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org}}</ref> |GDR |Bruce Stadium, Canberra (AUS) |6 October 1985 |- |4x100 metre relay |40.82 |Tianna Bartoletta,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Tianna Bartoletta {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/tianna-bartoletta-14315831|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Allyson Felix,<ref name="ReferenceD">{{Cite web|title=Allyson Felix {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/allyson-felix-14309983|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Bianca Knight,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Bianca Knight {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/bianca-knight-14314587|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Carmelita Jeter<ref>{{Cite web|title=Carmelita Jeter {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/carmelita-jeter-14313618|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> |USA<ref name="ReferenceB"/> |Olympic Stadium, London (GBR) |10 August 2012 |- |4x200 metre relay (indoors) |1:32.41 |Yuliya Gushchina,<ref name="ReferenceE">{{Cite web|title=Yuliya Gushchina {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/russia/yuliya-gushchina-14297898|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Yuliya Pechonkina,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Yuliya Pechonkina {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/russia/yuliya-pechonkina-14298763|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Irina Khabarova,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Irina Khabarova {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/athletes/russia/irina-khabarova-14298065|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org}}</ref> Yekaterina Kondratyeva<ref>{{Cite web|title=Yekaterina Kondratyeva|url=https://olympics.com/en/athletes/yekaterina-kondratyeva|access-date=2021-07-30|website=Olympics.com}}</ref> |RUS<ref name="Member Federations"/> |Glasgow (GBR) |29 January 2005 |- |4x200 metre relay (outdoors) |1:27.46 |Marion Jones,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Marion Jones {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/marion-jones-14313964|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Nanceen Perry,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Nanceen Perry {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/nanceen-perry-14318804|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> LaTasha Colander,<ref>{{Cite web|title=LaTasha Colander {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/latasha-colander-14307842|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> LaTasha Jenkins<ref>{{Cite web|title=LaTasha Jenkins {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/latasha-jenkins-14313570|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org}}</ref> |USA<ref name="ReferenceB"/> |Philadelphia, PA (USA) |29 April 2000 |- |4x400 metre relay (indoors) |3:23.37 |Yuliya Gushchina,<ref name="ReferenceE"/> Olga Kotlyarova,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Olga Kotlyarova {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/russia/olga-kotlyarova-14298253|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Olga Zaytseva,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Olga Zaytseva {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/russia/olga-zaytseva-14299866|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Olesya Krasnomovets-Forsheva<ref>{{Cite web|title=Olesya Krasnomovets {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/russia/olesya-krasnomovets-14298284|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> |RUS<ref name="Member Federations"/> |Glasgow (GBR) |28 January 2006 |- |4x400 metre relay (outdoors) |3:15.17 |Tatyana Ledovskaya,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Tatiana Ledovskaya|url=https://olympics.com/en/athletes/tatiana-ledovskaya|access-date=2021-07-30|website=Olympics.com}}</ref> Olga Nazarova,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Olga M. Nazarova {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/athletes/russia/olga-m.-nazarova-14298710|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org}}</ref> Mariya Pinigina,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Mariya Kulchunova-Pinigina {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/ussr/mariya-kulchunova-pinigina-14351853|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Olga Bryzgina<ref>{{Cite web|title=Olga Vladykina-Bryzgina {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/ukraine/olga-vladykina-bryzgina-14351412|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> |URS |Olympic Stadium, Jamsil, Seoul (KOR) |1 October 1988 |} {| class="wikitable" |+Men's World Records !Discipline !Performance !Competitor !Country !Venue !Date |- |50 metres |5.56 |Donovan Bailey<ref>{{Cite web|title=Donovan Bailey {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/canada/donovan-bailey-14174662|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> |CAN<ref>{{Cite web|title=Member Federations|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/about-iaaf/structure/member-federations/northcentral-americac#CAN|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org|language=en}}</ref> |Reno, Nevada (USA) |9 February 1996 |- |60 metres |6.34 |Christian Coleman<ref>{{Cite web|title=Christian Coleman {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/christian-coleman-14541956|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> |USA<ref name="ReferenceB"/> |Albuquerque, New Mexico (USA) |18 February 2018 |- |100 metres |9.58 |Usain Bolt<ref name="ReferenceF">{{Cite web|title=Usain Bolt {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/jamaica/usain-bolt-14201847|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> |JAM<ref name="ReferenceC"/> |Olympiastadion, Berlin (GER) |16 August 2009 |- |200 metres (indoors) |19.92 |Frank Fredericks<ref>{{Cite web|title=Frank Fredericks {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/namibia/frank-fredericks-14213565|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> |NAM<ref>{{Cite web|title=Member Federations|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/about-iaaf/structure/member-federations/africa#NAM|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org|language=en}}</ref> |Liévin (FRA) |18 February 1996 |- |200 metres (outdoors) |19.19 |Usain Bolt<ref name="ReferenceF"/> |JAM<ref name="ReferenceC"/> |Olympiastadion, Berlin (GER) |20 August 2009 |- |400 metres (indoors) |44.57 |Kerron Clement<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kerron Clement {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/kerron-clement-14234898|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> |USA<ref name="ReferenceB"/> |Fayetteville, Arkansas (USA) |12 March 2005 |- |400 metres (outdoors) |43.03 |Wayde Van Niekerk<ref>{{Cite web|title=Wayde Van niekerk {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/south-africa/wayde-van-niekerk-14417677|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> |RSA<ref>{{Cite web|title=Member Federations|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/about-iaaf/structure/member-federations/africa#RSA|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org|language=en}}</ref> |Estádio Olímpico, Rio de Janeiro (BRA) |14 August 2016 |- |4x100 metre relay |36.84 |Nesta Carter,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Nesta Carter {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/jamaica/nesta-carter-14201894|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Michael Frater,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Michael FRATER {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/jamaica/michael-frater-14202005|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Yohan Blake,<ref name="ReferenceG">{{Cite web|title=Yohan BLAKE {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/jamaica/yohan-blake-14201842|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Usain Bolt<ref name="ReferenceF"/> |JAM<ref name="ReferenceC"/> |Olympic Stadium, London (GBR) |11 August 2012 |- |4x200 metre relay (indoors) |1:22.11 |John Regis,<ref>{{Cite web|title=John Regis {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/great-britain-ni/john-regis-14190560|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Ade Mafe,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Ade Mafe {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/great-britain-ni/ade-mafe-14351570|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Darren Braithwaite,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Darren Braithwaite {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/athletes/great-britain-ni/darren-braithwaite-14188635|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org}}</ref> Linford Christie<ref>{{Cite web|title=Linford Christie {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/great-britain-ni/linford-christie-14188828|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> |GBR<ref>{{Cite web|title=Member Federations|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/about-iaaf/structure/member-federations/europe#GBR|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org|language=en}}</ref> |Glasgow (GBR) |3 March 1991 |- |4x200 metre relay (outdoors) |1:18.63 |Nickel Ashmeade,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Nickel Ashmeade {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/jamaica/nickel-ashmeade-14201803|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Warren Weir,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Warren Weir {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/jamaica/warren-weir-14202309|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Jermaine Brown,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Germaine BROWN {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/jamaica/germaine-brown-14201858|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Yohan Blake<ref name="ReferenceG"/> |JAM<ref name="ReferenceC"/> |T. Robinson Stadium, Nassau (BAH) |24 May 2014 |- |4x400 metre relay (indoors) |3:01.51 |Amere Lattin,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Amere Lattin {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/amere-lattin-14563822|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Obi Igbokwe,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Obi IGBOKWE {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/obi-igbokwe-14621985|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org}}</ref> Jermaine Holt,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Jermaine Holt - Track and Field|url=https://uhcougars.com/sports/track-and-field/roster/jermaine-holt/6121|access-date=2021-07-30|website=University of Houston Athletics|language=en}}</ref> Kahmari Montgomery<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kahmari MONTGOMERY {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/kahmari-montgomery-14586813|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> |USA<ref name="ReferenceB"/> |Clemson, South Carolina (USA) |9 February 2019 |- |4x400 metre relay (outdoors) |2:54.29 |Michael Johnson,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Michael Johnson {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/michael-johnson-14242187|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Harry "Butch" Reynolds,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Harry Reynolds {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/harry-reynolds-14249424|access-date=2021-07-30|website=worldathletics.org}}</ref> Quincy Watts,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Quincy Watts {{!}} Profile {{!}} World Athletics|url=https://www.worldathletics.org/athletes/united-states/quincy-watts-14504938|access-date=2021-07-30|website=www.worldathletics.org}}</ref> Andrew Valmon<ref>{{Cite web|title=Andrew Valmon - Head Track Coach - Staff Directory|url=https://umterps.com/staff-directory/andrew-valmon/3|access-date=2021-07-30|website=University of Maryland Athletics|language=en}}</ref> |USA<ref name="ReferenceB"/> |Gottlieb-Daimler Stadion, Stuttgart (GER) |22 August 1993 |} {| class="wikitable" |+Mixed World Records !Discipline !Performance !Competitor !Country !Venue !Date |- |4x400 metre relay mixed |3:08.80 |Justin Robinson, Rosey Effiong, Matthew Bowling, Alexis Holmes |USA<ref name="ReferenceB"/> |National Athletics Centre, Budapest (HUN) |19 August 2023 |}

== Worldwide events involving sprint races == *African Games *Asian Games *European Athletics Championship *The Olympic Games *Wanda Diamond League *World Athletics Relays *Youth Olympic Games

== Sprint training ==

While genetics play a large role in one's ability to sprint,<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Lombardo|first1=Michael P.|last2=Deaner|first2=Robert O.|date=2014-06-26|title=You can't teach speed: sprinters falsify the deliberate practice model of expertise|journal=PeerJ|language=en|volume=2|pages=e445|doi=10.7717/peerj.445|issn=2167-8359|pmc=4081292|pmid=25024914 |doi-access=free }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|title=ACTN3 and ACE genotypes in elite Jamaican and US sprinters|first1=Robert A.|last1=Scott|first2=Rachael|last2=Irving|first3=Laura|last3=Irwin|first4=Errol|last4=Morrison|first5=Vilma|last5=Charlton|first6=Krista|last6=Austin|first7=Dawn|last7=Tladi|first8=Michael|last8=Deason|first9=Samuel A.|last9=Headley|first10=Fred W.|last10=Kolkhorst|first11=Nan|last11=Yang|first12=Kathryn|last12=North|first13=Yannis P.|last13=Pitsiladis|date=1 January 2010|journal=Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise|volume=42|issue=1|pages=107–112|doi=10.1249/MSS.0b013e3181ae2bc0|pmid=20010124|doi-access=free}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|title=Genes for elite power and sprint performance: ACTN3 leads the way|first1=Nir|last1=Eynon|first2=Erik D.|last2=Hanson|first3=Alejandro|last3=Lucia|first4=Peter J.|last4=Houweling|first5=Fleur|last5=Garton|first6=Kathryn N.|last6=North|first7=David J.|last7=Bishop|date=1 September 2013|journal=Sports Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.)|volume=43|issue=9|pages=803–817|doi=10.1007/s40279-013-0059-4|pmid=23681449|s2cid=207492970}}</ref> athletes must be dedicated to their training to ensure that they can optimize their performances. Sprint training includes various running workouts, targeting acceleration, speed development, speed endurance, special endurance, and tempo endurance. Additionally, athletes perform intense strength training workouts, as well as plyometric or jumping workouts. Collectively, these training methods produce qualities that allow athletes to be stronger, and more powerful, in hopes of ultimately running faster.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Husbands, Chris.|title=Sprinting : training, techniques and improving performance|date=30 September 2013|isbn=978-1-84797-645-1|location=Ramsbury|oclc=859777344}}</ref>

=== Strength and balance === In is important for sprinters that their muscular system is in the optimum ratio in order to maximise their chances of success. As such, in their training they seek to avoid excessive muscle imbalances developing especially in regard to a lateral imbalance between the left and right sides of their body. For example, the strength of their left and right legs should be approximately even and neither leg should be excessively stronger than the other.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Ward |first1=Keith |title=Routledge Handbook of Sports and Exercise |date=2024 |publisher=Routledge |location=Oxon |isbn=978-1-003-15217-0 |page=626}}</ref> If there is an excessive lateral imbalance, with one side of the body much stronger than the other, then it can result in negative physical stresses, overuse injuries and poor sprinting form. Methods to avoid this are therefore incorporated into sprint training.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Micheli M.D. |first1=Lyle J. |title=Encyclopedia of Sports Medicine |date=2011 |publisher=Sage Publications |isbn=978-1-412-96115-8 |pages=1142–43 |chapter=Preventing Sports Injuries: Muscle Imbalances}}</ref>

During the 200m and 400m sprints athletes run counter-clockwise around curved sections of the track. This is known as running the bend or curvilinear running. When sprinters run around these curved sections of track, their gait becomes asynchronous meaning that their left stride is shorter and their right stride longer. In order to avoid their leg muscles developing in a lop sided fashion they also run clockwise around the track during training. This means that, overall, they are using their left and right legs in a more even manner and therefore their strength develops in more of a balanced way.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Hanley, Brian; Padulo, Johnny; Slawinski, Jean |title=The Biomechanics of Competitive Gait: Sprinting, Hurdling, Distance Running, and Race Walking |date=2022 |publisher=Frontiers |location=Lausanne |isbn=978-2-889-71980-8 |page=39}}</ref>

Similarly, launching from starting blocks is an asynchronous action. The foot on the front pedal drives for longer and applies significantly more force overall in this phase. In order to avoid a strength imbalance developing between the leg used on the front pedal and the one used on the rear pedal, the athlete alternates the foot they use for each pedal i.e. uses the left foot in the front pedal some of the time and the right foot in the front pedal at other times. Such a training practice results in a more even muscular development, improves overall efficiency and reduces the risk of injury. In races, sprinters use their strongest set up and put their preferred foot in the front pedal.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Freeman |first1=Will |title=Track and Field Coaching Essentials |publisher=Human Kinetics |location=Champaign |isbn=978-1-4504-8932-4 |pages=90–92 |chapter=Skills of the Sprint Event}}</ref>

Alternating asynchronous actions is a standard method used by athletes to ensure they achieve the optimum muscular development for their discipline and ensure higher levels of success.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Swinnen |first1=Bram |title=Strength Training for Soccer |date=2016 |publisher=Routledge |location=London |isbn=978-1-315-66527-6 |page=269}}</ref>

== Notes and references == {{reflist}}

==External links== * [https://web.archive.org/web/20061117141347/http://www.sprintic.com/extras/greatest_sprint_races/ Top 10 greatest sprint races in history] (archived 17 November 2006) * [https://iaaf.gekko.de/?a=sprints IAAF list of sprint records in XML]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Sprint (Race)}} Category:Sprint (running) Category:Sport of athletics by type Category:Running by type Category:Anaerobic exercise