sprinting mechanics for more speed

Sprinting fast is much more than just putting on a pair of sprinting spikes and heading out to the track while moving as fast as possible. Being able to run fast times requires a combination of relaxation, arm swing and leg action. All Olympic sprint champions have mastered the major objectives to a level of perfection. As a beginning sprinter you should seek perfection in every aspect of your sprinting mechanics so your body can move more efficiently.

The most important part of sprinting that you should focus on is practicing to remain relaxed while sprinting. Your sprinting movements should be fluid with no jerky action. You will often find the slowest sprinters on the track are the ones that often tense up during their races. Your eyes should be focused straight ahead at the finish line and not be focused on your competitors. Your jaw should slack a little to prevent your neck from tensing up while you are trying to accelerate your body quickly. And remember to breathe while sprinting, this will help keep your body relaxed and free from oxygen starvation.

While maintaining your total body relaxation while sprinting, just make sure that your arms are moving through their proper movements. Your hands should not come up higher than your chin level during the front swing and during the back swing you should cue your hands to place an object in your back pocket. Moving your arms to the proper position during the back swing allows your hips to rotate easily and it also allows your legs to open up your stride length.

An open stride length should be your important focus while moving your legs down the track. In order to keep your stride length open and fluid you should focus on your feet stepping over the opposite knee during the leg cycle.