sprinting

Usain Bolt, world record holder in 100 m and 200 m sprints This sprinter's initial crouch in the blocks allowed her to preload her muscles and channel the force generated from this into her first strides. Sprinting is running as fast as possible over a relatively short distance and period of time. It involves the whole body working as one in order to produce maximum forward thrust through a series of sprinting strides which are taken as quickly as possible. It is used in many sports that incorporate running, typically as a way of rapidly reaching a target or goal, avoiding or catching an opponent, or intercepting a ball.

In athletics and track and field, sprints (or dashes) are races over short distances. They are among the oldest running competitions, being recorded at the Ancient Olympic Games. Three sprints are currently held at the modern Summer Olympics and outdoor World Championships: the 100 metres, 200 metres, and 400 metres.