Use the 1-2-3 Rule When Coaching Young Athletes
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The “1-2-3- Rule” is an easy method for young athletes to use to determine the positioning of their starting blocks.
Step 1:
Place the starting blocks one foot-length behind the start line. (Make sure that the blocks are pointing straight down the track).
Step 2:
Position the front block two foot-lengths behind the start line.
Step 3:
Position the back block three foot-lengths behind the start line. (Adjust this block so that it is raised to an angle that is as high as possible while remaining comfortable).
And then . . .
Make sure that the blocks are stable, locked in and won’t slide, then test them out and adjust as needed.
Let me know how it goes!
I would love to hear if you try this method of setting up blocks with a young athlete and how it goes. Let me know by leaving a comment.
Further reading
Articles:
How to Set Up Starting Blocks in 3 Simple Steps (Video)
When Should Kids Learn to Crouch Start?
5 Secrets to Success With Starting Blocks
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Darren Wensor is a sports development professional, coach educator, specialist coach of young athletes, and founder of the blog coachingyoungathletes.com. Learn more about him here and connect with him on Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, or via email. Check out Coaching Young Athletes on YouTube, the Coaching Young Athletes podcast, and the Coaching Young Athletes E-Book Series.