Sprint Photo Sequence

The photo sequence was taken during a heat of the 200 metres in the A.A.A. Championships in 1990. Physically, it can be seen that John Regis is well prepared, especially in the area often neglected by sprinters and their coaches, the trunk and the shoulders.

His running is relaxed and smooth, with no sign of tension in the upper body. The trunk carriage is upright. Tension usually increases in a close run final where sprinters are under attack from others, but athletes must use try to prevent this happening.

John's shoulders are held fixed throughout the sequence, with little lateral movement. The arms travel through a good range. The backward drive of each elbow is evident and compliments the drive of the opposite leg.

Although it cannot be seen in the photo sequence, leg movement is quick and light. Each knee almost reaches hip height, achieving the good "high knees" position all sprinters look for. The leg drive, the all-important active aspect of the sequence of the leg cycle, is excellent. Coaches and athletes must understand that this develops from all aspects of preparation, not just from technique practices. The development of speed, strength, mobility and stamina all play their part in producing the ultimate technique.

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Associated Pages

The following Sports Coach pages should be read in conjunction with this page:

Associated Books

The following books provide more information related to this topic:

  • Sprints and Relays, F.W. Dick, ISBN 0 85134 082 2
  • Sprinting and Hurdling, P. Warden, ISBN 1 85223 299 4
  • How to Teach Track Events, M. Arnold, ISBN 0 85134 085 7
  • Advanced Studies in Physical Education and Sport, P Beashel et al., ISBN 0 17 4482345
  • Physical Education and the Study of Sport, B. Davis et al., ISBN 0 7234 31752
  • Essentials of Exercise Physiology, W.D. McArdle et al., ISBN 0 683 30507 7
  • Physical Education and Sport Studies, D. Roscoe et al., ISBN 1 901424 20 0
  • The World of Sport Examined, P. Beashel et al., ISBN 0 17 438719 9
  • Advanced PE for Edexcel, F. Galligan et al., ISBN 0 435 50643 9
  • Examining Physical Education, K. Bizley, ISBN 0 435 50660 9
  • Sport and PE, K Wesson et al., ISBN 0 340 683821
  • PE for you, J. Honeybourne, ISBN 0 7487 3277 2