The calculated force velocity profile is only as good as its input data. Therefore, it is very important to follow and be consistent with data collection.
Set Up the Test
- Choose a flat, non-slippery surface (e.g., track or turf).
- Ensure the athlete performs a proper warm-up before testing.
- Machine settings:
- Load: 1-3kg
- Speed: resisted speed 14 m/s and assisted speed > 1.5 m/s
- Resistance setting: NFW (No Flying Weight)
Sprint Trials
- Have the athlete sprint from a static start position (no rolling starts).
- Make sure that the sprint is a max effort throughout.
- Ensure that the sprint is long enough to allow the athlete to reach their top speed and plateau out.
- For most, this is 30-40m but for exceptionally fast sprinters it may be longer. See table below for more details.
How long should I run?
The required distance depends on both the runner's top speed and their acceleration ability (
Therefore, it's not possible to give a recommended distance that works for everyone. Instead, these guidelines can be used:
- Young athletes: 20-25m
- Professional team sport: 25-35m
- Olympic sprinter: 45-55m
The table below provides and overview of recommended distances required with different combinations of these two variables. Shorter runs might work, but the quality of the calculation may go down.
| 7 m/s | 23.2 | 25.4 | 27.5 | 29.6 | 31.7 |
| 8 m/s | 26.6 | 29.0 | 31.4 | 33.8 | 36.2 |
| 9 m/s | 29.9 | 32.6 | 35.3 | 38.0 | 40.7 |
| 10 m/s | 33.2 | 36.2 | 39.2 | 42.3 | 45.3 |
| 11 m/s | 36.5 | 39.8 | 43.2 | 46.5 | 49.8 |
| 12 m/s | 39.8 | 43.5 | 47.1 | 50.7 | 54.3 |