Track and Field Training: Sprinting, Javelin and Jump Techniques

Improving your sprinting time involves mastering starting blocks and developing a longer running stride. Track and field athletes should also focus on javelin throw tips and triple jump techniques for peak performance.

Detailed view of a sprinter in the starting blocks

Do Spikes Make You Run Faster?

Published Aug,17 2011 | By Rob Harris

Spikes gain most of their notoriety from track and field events as shoes that give runners extra traction. Different from the cleats commonly seen in sports such as soccer and football, spike shoes use removable metal or plastic spikes on the bases -- cleats typically have molded, permanent nodules on the bottoms.

While studying journalism in the Army and at the University of Missouri, Rob Harris developed a lifelong love of physical fitness and nutrition, contributing often to a dairy industry newsletter. He has also worked with and created blogs for several family businesses including a professional dog kennel and a flower shop, where he used his experience as an avid gardener to grow plants for sale.