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Sprint Physiology and Energy Provision
It is important to understand that sprinting is a highly variable and versatile skill set, and to be considered a good sprinter you need to train all aspects of speed.
Sprint efforts rely heavily on the ATP/CP energy system, as well as the anaerobic lactic energy system. Our bodies typically store enough ATP in the muscles to sustain a maximum effort of approximately 10 seconds. CP is the molecular battery charger that helps produce more ATP once it's used up. For starts and short sprints, this is the main system that provides fuel for the muscles.
For efforts beyond 10 seconds the anaerobic lactic system is the powerhouse for providing energy. The downside is that lactic acid is rapidly produced, and accumulates so quickly that the muscles will literally cease to function after an extended sprint of maximum effort. Coordination disappears, technique falls apart, and you resemble a wounded wildebeest on wheels more than a talented speed skater.
Training involves short, explosive efforts that not only improve the energy dynamics of sprinting, but there is no better way to develop improved leg speed and solid technique. Quite often the only time a skater truly sprints with 100% effort is at the end of a race. But to get faster one needs to replicate this in training.
Acceleration, Peak Sprint & Sprint Capacity
It is important to understand that sprinting is a highly variable and versatile skill set, and to be considered a good sprinter you need to train all aspects of speed. We've already talked about acceleration, and how acceleration is different depending on one's starting speed. And then we have what is called Peak Sprint. Peak Sprint, or top-end, is simply the maximum velocity a skater can achieve. Top end is also dependant on initial velocity. And lastly, we have Sprint capacity. Sprint capacity is a reflection of how long a skater is able to maintain their top speed. Some skaters are blessed with an incredible top-end, but are not able to maintain it for very long. Other skaters have a lower top end, but a much higher sprint capacity. To be a good all-around sprinter it is important to train both attributes. The first step is to try and identify your relative strength, and then consciously put more effort into training your weakness.
opyright © 2004 Barry Publow. All Rights Reserved.
