The Effect of Adjusting Starting Supports Based on Anthropometric Measurements on Improving Biomechanical Variables of Launch and Acceleration in 100-Meter Runners Under 20 Years Old

Abstract

This research aims to study the effect of adjusting starting supports based on anthropometric measurements on improving the biomechanical variables of launch and acceleration in sprint runners under 20 years of age. The research employed an experimental approach with a sample of 12 young Iraqi runners, divided into two groups (experimental and control). Anthropometric measurements were taken, including total height, leg length, thigh length, and pelvic width. These measurements were used to adjust the starting blocks according to proposed mathematical equations. High-speed cameras and force measurement platforms were used for biomechanical analysis before and after the adjustments were implemented. The results showed a significant improvement in the experimental group, with an 18.5% increase in reaction time and a 12.3% increase in starting speed, which positively impacted their time in the first 30 meters of the race. The researchers concluded that individual adjustment of starting blocks based on anthropometric measurements leads to improved mechanical efficiency of acceleration and starting, and the research provides a scientific model applicable in the field.