Five Basic Components to Successful Track and Field Coaching and Maximizing Performances
Hip Height
Traction
Elongation
Levers
Foot Strike
The five components above work together to make the body an efficient machine. They give the potential to produce and use optimal force and energy efficiently. Understanding how all five work together will improve coaching awareness and athletic performance. These five components also work for other sports.
Hip Height
Hip height has to be optimal from the start of any movement. Optimal hip height allows for the mechanical properties (levers) of the body to work more efficiently. Optimal hip height maintains the balance between maintaining horizontal velocity and vertical displacement of the hip producing the best flight curve properties for any event. It also allows for faster acceleration and better speed maintenance and reduces the potential for injuries.
Traction
Traction is the maximum frictional force that can be produced between surfaces without slipping. Traction is what allows us to push and pull, the greater the friction, the more efficient use of force to move the body. Traction allows for tension to be created and maintained. Optimal hip height will produce optimal traction; optimal traction allows for the maintenance of optimal hip height.
Elongation
Elongation allows for hip height and speed maintenance. It gives one the ability to vary hip height while maintaining horizontal velocity. Elongation allows for better use of energy produced by the legs, torso and shoulders and provides for good posture.
Levers
Short levers equal speed of movement and long levers are for transmitting force. Legs and arms bend to move from short to long levers, rotating around joints. The use of lever produces fluid continuous movement in a direction.
Foot Strike
Landing on the fifth metatarsal eliminates braking action and increases traction. Landing on the ball of the foot reduces braking action while landing on the mid foot and heel creates a braking action at the hip, altering hip height and reducing the ability to maintain optimal hip height.
All five of these components are intertwined together. One needs all five to be at the optimal best. If you want to improve, look at these five component first.
For more information on how to use these 5 components in your training system contact Next Level Athletics and Fitness (NLAAF).
