Analysis of the acceleration phase in short hurdle sprints

The article focuses on the analysis of the acceleration phase in short hurdle sprints, specifically the Approach to the first hurdle and the touchdouwn after firt hurdle. The approach to the first hurdle is a crucial and rhythmically demanding segment of the women’s 100m hurdles and the men’s 110m hurdles, where athletes can make numerous mistakes, losing valuable time. The aim of this study was to measure and analyze step rhythm during the approach using the OptoJump Next system. This device allowed for precise measurement of individual step lengths, the duration of ground contact and flight phases, and step frequency. Additionally, the time taken to clear the first hurdle and touchdown after the first hudle was recorded using a high-speed camera. Measurements were conducted in 2023 and 2024 under standardized conditions, with block starts triggered by a starting signal. The approach distance and hurdle height complied with official competition rules. The analysis included members of the Youth Sports Center (adolescent and junior age categories) and selected high-performing hurdlers from the senior category.