Starting blocks are the track-and-field sprinter's launching pad, present at every short-distance race from the 100-meter dash to the 400-meter relay. Understanding how starting blocks work can mean winning a race by a fraction of a second. Sprinters have used starting blocks for nearly a century, and they have evolved into the sleek mechanisms that grace starting lines today.
Features
Modern starting blocks typically are constructed of a thick aluminum spine with an adjustable pedal, or block, on each side. Each pedal is adjusted along the length of the spine and angled up or down per a sprinter's preference. A rubber material covers the surface of each pedal, allowing for a tight fit between the bottom of the sprinter's shoe and the pedal. Needle spikes anchor the starting blocks on synthetic tracks, while whole anchor pins anchor the blocks on cinder tracks.
Types
Starting blocks come in a number of different varieties. International starting blocks are among the most sophisticated, featuring adjustable blocks, block angle options and spikes for different college and international competition surfaces. Indoor starting blocks consist of two separate rubber blocks that adhere to an indoor track surface without spikes or glue. Wide track competition models feature extra-wide blocks that enable sprinters to utilize a number of different foot positions. Scholastic starting blocks, used in middle and high school competitions, feature adjustable pedals and surface spikes.
Pedal Height
Two kinds of pedals predominate track and field starting blocks: short and high. Short pedals cover only the top half of the foot when the sprinter is in the "set" position. With the heel exposed, some sprinters prefer this low pedal because the calf muscle's stretch reflex provides a greater launch at the start of a race. High pedals cover the whole foot and have been the predominant starting pedal at international track and field competitions in recent years. Some sprinters who use high pedals position their toes about an inch up on the pedal to take advantage of the same stretch reflex.
Function
Position starting blocks so that the front block is approximately 2-foot lengths from the starting line, with the blocks spaced about a shin's length apart. The front block supports the leg that will launch the sprinter off the starting line, and bears the most pressure when the starting gun fires. The rear block accommodates the foot that will follow the launching foot and land on the track first. Every sprinter has a "power side" and a "quick side." The power side is generally the foot that goes into the front block, while the quick side goes into the rear one.
Considerations
Foot positioning isn't the only consideration when using starting blocks. Sprinters must position their fingers just behind the starting line at just wider than shoulder length, so that each hand forms a high bridge on the track surface. Arms remain straight, but not locked. Head and neck align with the spine. Eyes are on the track ahead. While every sprinter is unique, the "set" part of a race start should typically see front knee at a 90-degree angle, while the rear knee is angled at about 120 degrees. Angling each starting block so the foot rests comfortably and firmly in the block is a recommended pre-race routine.
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