100 Meters Sprint - Track and Field

The 100 meters sprint is considered the king discipline of the Olympic Games. 100-meter runners are generally larger and more muscular than other track and field athletes, and the winner of this discipline can rightfully call himself the fastest man in the world. The 100 meters sprint world record is held by Asafa Powell from Jamaica (9.77 seconds).

Description: 100 Meters Sprint - Track & Field

The 100 meters sprint is run on the toes.

Steps are short and aggressive.

Upper body strength is often underestimated. The upper body, especially the arms, must compensate for what the legs do.

Watch the 100 meters sprint biomechanics videos for a detailed breakdown.

A false start occurs when the time difference between the starting gun and the first push off the blocks is less than 0.1 seconds. This time difference is measured electronically with sensors built into the starting blocks and the gun.

Trainer Advice: 100 Meters Sprint - Track & Field

• Include plyometric exercises in your training.
• Weight training at least twice a week is recommended. You need a lot of fast-twitch muscle fibers to be a good 100 meters sprinter.
• Rest is very important for progress and muscle recovery.
• 100 meters sprinters are usually also good long jumpers.

Videos: 100 Meters Sprint - Track & Field

• Watch Asafa Powell break the 100 meters sprint world record
• 100 meters sprint 01 – www.engr.wisc.edu showing 100 meters sprint biomechanics
• 100 meters sprint 02 – www.engr.wisc.edu showing 100 meters sprint biomechanics