Sprinting - Directed Task

Question 1

Explain briefly the importance of impulse for sprinting performance and describe how this mechanical variable may change during different stages of the 100 m race.

Answer 1

Impulse is a key determinant of sprint performance

Propulsive impulse > braking impulse during acceleration phase

Braking impulse > propulsive impulse during deceleration phase

Braking impulse = propulsive impulse during constant velocity phase

Vertical impulse determines flight time and links to step length.

Anterior-posterior impulse determines take-off velocity during a step – links to the impulse-momentum relationship