What Kind of Sprints Do You Run in Track?

Track and field is a competitive sport that consist of different events such as running, throwing and jumping. There are different types of sprint races that runners can compete in. Train and compete for your preferred type of sprint by committing to a training program that develops endurance and speed.

  1. Track and Field

    • Sprints are short running races in track and field. Three track sprints, the 100-, 200- and 400-meter events are held at the Summer Olympics and Outdoor World Championships. Sprinting has three types of starts: the bunch or bullet, medium and elongated. The bunch or bullet start is a style where the toes of the rear foot are in approximate level with the front foot's heel. Both feet are positioned well back from the starting line of the track. In the medium sprint start, the knee of the runner's rear leg is positioned opposite the front half of the front foot. The elongated start position consists of the rear leg's knee being at level or a little bit behind the front foot's heel.

    Sprints and Techniques

    • Sprints have different phases and techniques including the start, acceleration and maximum phases. During the start phase, runners focus on distributing their body weight evenly as they assume the starting position with their hands and knees. Another focus is the explosive propulsion technique by extending the front legs and remaining in contact with the ground as the back leg swings forward. During the acceleration phase, the stance technique includes decreasing the forward lean to normal sprinting position at about 20 meters while keeping a relaxed neck position and the eyes focused straight ahead.

    Sprint Distances

    • Different types of sprint distances include 100, 200, 400 and 800 meters. Longer sprint distances are also held in trackm including 1,500, 5,000 and 10,000 meters. The shortest race in the outdoor track timetable is the 100-meter sprint, according to International Association of Athletics Federations. The 400-meter sprint is related to the quarter-mile, which is 440 yards or 402.34 meters. Many runners describe the 400-meter sprint as an endurance race.

    Training

    • There are different forms of training methods for improving sprint performance including tempo runs, resisted sprints and assisted sprints. Resisted sprints include running uphill and running with a sled. Runners who like to train with assisted sprints incorporate downhill terrains on their routine as well as running with the wind. By adding resistance to your training, your speed, endurance and overall performance become stronger.