Sprint Training Program for Relays, Part 1

Obviously four fast sprinters are required for a 4x100m sprint. However the athletes can vary from 100, 200 or even 400m sprinters, when used correctly. (See The Rules For Sprinters.) The first and third legs of a relay are run on the bends, so…

Jul 18, 2014

Teaching Speed – Applying Force Quickly

A study performed by Weyand, Sternlight, Bellizzi and Wright at Harvard University in 2000 looked at what the determining factors were for a greater top speed in active men and women between the ages of 18 and 36. Participants were asked to…

Jul 18, 2014

Pacing Strategies for Distance Events

Every four years before the summer Olympics, the U.S. holds an Olympic Trials track and field meet to determine the U.S. Olympic team. Athletes who have met the U.S. Olympic Trials “automatic” standard within the prescribed time period are…

Jul 18, 2014

Technical Build-Ups: The Best Training for 400m and 800m Sprinters

What makes a workout program “the best,” “the greatest” or even “the ultimate” – besides a coach’s or trainer’s opinion?

To substantiate such claims, we need to know why. By labeling Technical Build-Ups as “the best” drill for sprinters, I’m…

Jul 18, 2014

Six Phases of A Perfect 400m Race

The 400m is a tough race, so training for it is pretty rigorous. However, many athletes make it harder on themselves, because their training lacks an indispensable element.

A race strategy is critical to effective training, and it should shape…

Jul 18, 2014

Glide Shot Put Technique – Errors and Corrections

The start of the glide if not executed properly can lead to several problems-

Error- Excessive movement with the legs prior to unseating the hips at the back of the circle

Correction
It is recommended to start with a simple start for…

Jul 18, 2014

Psychological Factors Contributing to Injury

Physical factors are the primary cause of athletic injuries, but psychological factors also contribute. Sport psychologists have helped clarify the role that psychological factors play in athletic injuries. Figure 1 shows a simplified version of…

Jul 18, 2014

A COACH’S Leadership

Affective leadership is a result of a systematic and sensible approach to a unique management style designed to reach the vision and mission of a successful program. To develop leadership qualities as an athletics coach, one can learn from the…

Jul 18, 2014

Trusting The Process

Coaches who deal with novice and struggling athletes can find themselves in a difficult position when wanting to help athletes set goals. How do you set goals for someone who has never competed? What type of goals do you set for someone who has…

Jul 18, 2014

Mental Toughness – The Psychological Skills

Psychological characteristics such as mental toughness, goal setting, imagery, realistic performance evaluation and commitment have been shown to be the difference between a medal winner in the Olympics and non-medal…

Jul 18, 2014

How to Approach the Start of a Race

The call-up—the time before the race when you report and get your lane assignment—varies among events. To make sure you are fully prepared, you need to take two things into account. First, always time your warm-up to allow time for the call-up.

Jul 18, 2014

A Special Relationship – A Coach’s Duty In Sports Law

The iconic image of a coach and athlete traditionally evokes images of little league baseball coaches mentoring young boys, Mary Lou Retton celebrating Olympic triumph in Bela Karolyi’s arms, or teams like UCLA who symbolized basketball greatness…

Jul 18, 2014