Top 5 Cardio Drills to Build Explosive Speed

Speed is a critical attribute for athletes across various sports, relying on muscular power, neuromuscular coordination, and anaerobic energy systems. Explosive speed is largely driven by the stretch-shortening cycle (SSC), where muscles store and release elastic energy rapidly(Suchomel et al., 2018).

High-intensity cardio drills targeting fast-twitch muscle fibres, reaction times, and force production can significantly improve sprint performance.

1. Sprint Intervals

Why It Works

Sprint intervals train the ATP-PCr energy system, which fuels short, explosive efforts(Laursen & Jenkins, 2002). They also enhance neuromuscular efficiency and increase the rate of force development (RFD), essential for explosive acceleration.

How to Do It

1. Warm up with dynamic stretching and light jogging.
2. Sprint at 90-100% effort for 20-30 metres.
3. Walk or jog for 60-90 seconds.
4. Repeat for 6-10 sprints.
5. Perform 2-3 sessions per week.

2. Hill Sprints

Why It Works

Hill sprints increase sprint-specific strength by forcing athletes to apply greater force with each step. Research shows incline sprints recruit more muscle fibres in the lower body and improve acceleration(Walker et al., 2021).

How to Do It

1. Find a hill with a 10-15% incline.
2. Sprint up at maximal effort for 30 metres.
3. Walk down for recovery.
4. Repeat for 6-8 sprints.
5. Train 1-2 times weekly for best results.

3. Resisted Sprinting

Why It Works

Using resistance, such as sleds or parachutes, enhances sprint mechanics by improving force application against the ground(Petra et al., 2019). Studies confirm that resisted sprints increase sprint acceleration and maximum velocity when incorporated into training.

How to Do It

1. Attach a sled with 10-20% of body weight or use a parachute.
2. Sprint at maximum intensity for 20-30 metres.
3. Rest for 90 seconds and repeat for 4-6 sprints.
4. Use once a week to avoid excessive fatigue.

4. Bounding Drills

Why It Works

Bounding drills improve reactive strength, a key determinant of sprint speed. They train the SSC and enhance the ability to generate force rapidly(Samozino et al., 2016).

How to Do It

1. Start with a forward bound, covering as much ground as possible.
2. Land and immediately transition into the next bound.
3. Perform 3-4 sets of 15-20 metres.
4. Maintain a tall posture and drive knees aggressively.

5. High-Speed Treadmill Sprints

Why It Works

Research indicates that high-speed treadmill sprints improve stride frequency and leg turnover rate, leading to better sprint performance(Fletcher et al., 2010).

How to Do It

1. Set the treadmill to 20-25% above your maximum sprint speed.
2. Sprint for 5-10 seconds.
3. Rest for 90 seconds and repeat for 6-8 rounds.
4. Include this in your program 1-2 times weekly.

Key Takeaways

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