Gender-Related Differences in Mechanics of the Sprint Start and Sprint Acceleration of Top National-Level Sprinters

Abstract

(1) Background: Within the current study we aimed at exploring gender-related differences and the relationship between sprint start block kinematics and kinetics and sprint acceleration force–velocity (F-v) relationship parameters (maximal force [F0], maximal velocity [v0], maximal power [Pmax] and slope) in top national-level sprinters. (2) Methods: Twenty-eight sprinters (6 females) performed 10 maximal 30-m sprints. Start block and acceleration kinematics and kinetics were collected with an instrumented sprint start block and a laser distance sensor (KiSprint system). Displacement-time data were used to determine the F-v relationship through Samozino’s method. (3) Results: Start block rear foot maximal force (effect size [ES] = 1.08), rate of force development (ES = 0.90–1.33), F0 (ES = 1.38), v0 (ES = 1.83) and Pmax (ES = 1.95) were higher in males than in females (p ≤ 0.05). There were no differences in the slope, and ratio of horizontal-to-resultant force. F0, v0, and Pmax generally presented higher correlations with the start block kinetics (median r [range] = 0.49 [0.28, 0.78]) than with the kinematics (median r [range] = −0.27 [−0.52, 0.28]). (4) Conclusions: We confirmed that sprint block phase and sprint acceleration mechanics should be mutually assessed when analyzing sprinting performance. KiSprint system could provide more accurate information regarding mechanical pattern and technique during sprint initiation and acceleration, and potentially help create a more personalized and effective training program.

Reliability of Sprint Force-Velocity-Power Profiles Obtained with KiSprint System

“…This study aimed to assess the within-and betweensession reliability of the sprint FVP profiling using a KiSprint system, which was recently shown to provide accurate information on mechanical patterns and technique during sprint initiation and acceleration, and can thus assist in personalization of training programs (Mirkov et al, 2020). It consists of an instrumented sprint start block, an electric trigger gun and a high quality laser distance sensor, which allows practitioners to concomitantly evaluate block start performance and the FVP relationship in sprint acceleration.…”

Comparison of Hollow Sprint and Interval Training in Increasing Speed of 100 M Sprint Test

“…The difference between sprint, medium distance, and long-distance running lies in the running speed of the runners. The ability to quickly accelerate from a static position and maintain high running velocities are clear determinants of performance in sprint race events [6], [7]. These activities can be done well in a health-enhancing manner such as physical exercise, if relevant muscle groups are involved, the intensity is sufficient, and the recovery is appropriate.…”