more superlative wrote:
Interesting approach, "well..." the next step would be a multivariable analysis factoring in his height progression, maybe weight too. If that info can be found. Then you could factor out how much of the "jump" in 2007 was due to growth, and anything that remained would require another explanation. Anybody know if there's height data for bolt anywhere?
Not exactly the answer you seek, but good info nevertheless.
"In one of the published interviews, his coach revealed also that there were changes made to Bolt's running technique at that time which led him on a string of victories and straight into the history of sprinting two years later. That fact alone should make it clear that talent is great, but an improved skill is even better, and that's the real deal maker or breaker.
Bolt is a beautiful example of good genetics and raw talent reinforced by better technique. His running technique alone is far more superior than anyone else's in the recorded history of running. Compounded by his physical and psychological attributes, that seem to be superior to other athletes as well, Bolt paints the future of sports in radical colors.
Funny enough, some of the physical qualities that really contribute to his success, are traditionally thought of as negative factors. His height (6'4), for example, is deemed inappropriately tall for a sprinter. It is true, a tall dude with a bad technique is bound to be a mess. Yet a tall dude that uses his body's natural mechanics instead of powering through them - will always be ahead of the pack. Why? Simple. Geometry, physics and biomechanics at work, and they will work beautifully in synergy, if you let them.
An analysis of the footage from Berlin reveals that Tyson Gay (274spm) happens to have a higher cadence than Bolt (257spm). Bolt actually upped his cadence from 254 spm at the Olympics in '08. Gay's (18.6) and Bolt's (18.5) degree of falling (leaning forward) is virtually similar. Yet Bolt is taller (Gay is 5'11) and his technique is better, and the combination of all of that contributes to the difference in output and the result produced. More likely than not, the power runner Gay will never be able to run faster than Bolt. The same goes for Asafa Powell, who was considered to be the "promised one" by the Jamaican federation officials. Unless there is a change in their technique - the future belongs to Bolt.
One of the most significant differences in the technique of these three stars is their ability to use the forces at work when running. Both Powell and Gay try to muscle their way whereas Bolt uses gravity to his advantage, he describes it as "smooth sailing". In the game of muscles vs gravity, muscles will always loose and you can bet on that."