Sprinting tips for speed and power?

Question

Ok I'm a fast sprinter but i have no idea how to gain more speed and power. i can leg press around 1100lb and i can run a mile in 4:30, but my goal is to get into the 2012 Olympics and i think that i need to step up my game. For all of the couches out there i need your help.

Thanks

Answer 1

Here is some information i found on yahoo that was answering a similar question:

Three components of the sprint: Stride length, leg speed, endurance

Stride length: Practice butt kicks, high knees, skipping, and exaggerated strides

Leg turnover: Speed is gained by practicing foot exercises and just running. Be careful not to do too much full out sprinting because it can hurt you if you do too much. Leg strength will help with this as well. Try this: Take one big step forward with one foot, then bend your knees so you move closer to the ground, then slowly back up. Do 20-30 reps in between rests and train both legs. This will get your legs a little stronger and faster.

Endurance: Not really endurance like a distance runner, but you should try to keep up top speed for as long as possible. if you seem to falter near the end of the race, that's normal, but not good. Either your lungs are getting tired or your legs are. Try effective breathing to get as much oxygen as you can. Cellular respiration (the process by which cells make energy) requires oxygen and if you don't have enough, your cells will stop making energy. If your legs get tired the leg strength exercises will help. Don't spend too much time on endurance, but just stay fit and you should be fine.

you might be able to find some more info here:

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?...

Hope this helps