Assisted sprinting and overspeed

Assisted sprinting uses a forward pull while the athlete continues to run actively. Overspeed is the subset where the athlete exceeds their unloaded maximum sprint speed. Assistance can also support submaximal drills without producing overspeed.

Watch the full assisted sprinting and overspeed video on YouTube

Prepare the running area

Before selecting a load, plan the running distance, finish, and deceleration area. On Sprint 2, follow the Assisted Sprint quick start for the zero position, no-pull zone, and slowdown-zone requirements.

Use Sessions when you need saved data. Quick-start results are temporary and are deleted when you close the app.

Plan how the athlete finishes

Choose and rehearse the finishing method before a fast effort.

Quick release

Follow Attaching a Quick Release Strap and the release setup in the quick-start guide. Position the calibration point closer to the machine than the release zone so the released line retracts out of the athlete's path. Preserve the required slowdown space.

Staying attached

The coaching tutorial also demonstrates moving the line to the side near the end of the run before assistance stops. This requires a planned line path and enough remaining distance to decelerate before reaching the calibrated limit. Rehearse the full finish at low intensity first; do not improvise it during an overspeed effort.

Select assistance

The existing guidance for long sprints uses 3 kg as a starting point to help keep the line from dragging over distances greater than 20 m. The appropriate assistance depends on the athlete and task. Many athletes use light assistance up to about 6 kg; loads of 10 kg or more are very high and require particular caution.

Check load and speed settings using the Resistance Control Bar. Increasing assisted load can reduce the assisted speed setting automatically, so review both before a rep.

Run and progress the session

1. Begin with short drills and light assistance to learn the setup and finish.
2. Coach active running and controlled mechanics throughout the rep.
3. Review the athlete's movement as well as the speed achieved.
4. Progress one variable at a time: assistance, distance, or exercise complexity.
5. Reduce the demand if the athlete cannot maintain control or execute the planned finish.

Higher displayed speed is useful only in the context of the intended training effect. Build familiarity and movement quality before pursuing greater overspeed.

Source: Assisted Sprinting and Overspeed: Setup, Progression, and Intent.