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Speed, Strength, and Conditioning -
Answer To Question #9

Question #9:

Is there a drive phase, or as long a drive phase, when using Moye starting blocks. Also my distance expert head coach thinks even sprinters should run six days a week-I think they need more recovery than his distance runners.

Russ

Answer by Latif Thomas:

There is always going to be a drive phase, even if not
using blocks. But starting blocks can be an ideal way of
setting up the fastest possible drive phase. Of course,
this is dependent on effective exit mechanics and
appropriate strength levels. I'm not particularly a fan
of Moye starting blocks, though I think they can be
beneficial for young, weak athletes not ready to get
down into a full 'set' position.

I don't have a problem with sprinters 'practicing' 6 days
a week. There is certainly plenty to be done and learned.
And my sprinters practice 6 days per week. But,
depending on many variables, up to 3 of those days are
going to be low/medium intensity tempo runs or work
capacity days. Or they might not require running at all.
But my sprinters certainly aren't going to be in a state
of fatigue 6 days per week because that is crazy.

Sprinters need more recovery than distance runners.

About Latif Thomas:

Highly regarded as one of the top speed coaches in the country, Latif is the Co-Owner of Athletes’ Acceleration, Inc., a leader in sports performance consulting, coaching and training resources for fitness professionals.

A former All East Sprinter while attending the University of Connecticut on a track and field scholarship, Latif is certified by the National Strength and Conditioning Association as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and is USA Track and Field Level II Certified in the Sprints, Hurdles and Relays. In 2005, he was voted the Massachusetts State Track Coaches Association Coach of the Year for his success in developing countless champions and record holders at the conference, division and state levels.

The former Director of Sports Performance at Mass Premier Courts, Latif has run numerous successful speed development programs and clinics for coaches and athletes of all sports and age groups. This includes the Speed Clinic Empire Mentorship, a program designed to teach coaches how to run their own profitable speed camps and clinics. Co-creator of the internationally acclaimed Complete Speed Training Program, Latif has excelled at simplifying program design and technical improvement in order to facilitate greater results in his athletes.

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