I was watching the 1992 Olympic Trials and it was noted that Johnny Gray wore distance spikes for the first two rounds and sprint spikes for the final round. Perhaps some of you have thoughts on the advantages and disadvantages of each one for that particular event.
Distance spikes are very versatile. An entry level MD spike is suitable for nearly every event. A sprint spike will work best for the 100 200, and sometimes 400.
Distance spikes are very versatile. An entry level MD spike is suitable for nearly every event. A sprint spike will work best for the 100 200, and sometimes 400.
Always been a fan of the maxcat as a versatile mid-D spike that is perfect for fast 800m runners. This is the first that came to mind: http://amzn.to/1obeLAC but some of the older ones will work too.
I think the 100, 200 and 400 are run exclusively with a forefoot/midfoot strike. It's hard (for me anyway) to run the 800 without heel striking after I get tired. Heel striking in sprint spikes increases the risk of injury because they have no heel.
Also, sprint spikes are stiffer, allowing for more forceful push off. I run in a full plate sprint spike for the 200 and 400, while using a mid distance spike for the 800. YMMV.
Distance spikes definitely if you ever 'drop a heel'. Heel strike in a sprint spike isn't comfortable.
Why do you think he switched between rounds? Could there be a psychological element or do you think he just wanted to run at a faster pace (which would be more appropriate for the sprinters)?
Larry83 wrote:
Why do you think he switched between rounds? Could there be a psychological element or do you think he just wanted to run at a faster pace (which would be more appropriate for the sprinters)?
I would imagine he wore distance spikes in the first rounds to reduce possibility of injury from heel striking and sprint spikes the final round for that little extra speed.
a relatively successful kid on my track and xc team didn't know much about track, and competed throughout our season wearing sprint spikes for events like the mile and 2-mile
RIP: D3 All-American Frank Csorba - who ran 13:56 in March - dead
RENATO can you talk about the preparation of Emile Cairess 2:06
Running for Bowerman Track Club used to be cool now its embarrassing
Great interview with Steve Cram - says Jakob has no chance of WRs this year
Hats off to my dad. He just ran a 1:42 Half Marathon and turns 75 in 2 months!