Do Sprinters Run on Their Toes?

Sprinters seem to defy the normal capacities of the human body. As you watch sprinters running as quickly as they can down a short-distance track, you might think that they are flying, or just touching the ground with their toes. If you are trying to become a sprinter, it is best not to imitate the best of the best with what you have observed on television or at a track and field event. Take the time to learn what effects sprinting on your toes can have.

Instructions

    • 1

      Use your toes when you are pushing off in the first part of a sprint. Push forward as hard and as fast as you can for a few steps before moving out of the start phase of your sprint.

    • 2

      Run on the balls of your feet once you have moved to a more upright position. Running on the balls of your feel will allow you to achieve your best results as a sprinter. The balls of your feet offer your stability and power that your toes do not. Use the balls of your feet to push against the ground.

    • 3

      Avoid running on your toes to prevent injury. Running on your toes can lead to poor running mechanics and an off-balance stride. Sprinting in this way can lead to many different kinds of injuries.