Why are there so much differences in the physique of a short-distance sprinter and a long-distance runner? ?

Question

I'm currently watching the coverage of Olympics and I noticed the competitors for 100m, 110m hurdles, 250m etc. have more well-developed torso and arms compared to the skinny features of competitors for 1000m. I know, being that small has advantages for marathon runner, but what's the purpose of developing the upper part of the body for the sprinters?

Answer 1

Sprinters need strong upper bodies to generate dynamic power whilst running. The next time you watch sprinting, notice how all of the sprinters have big upper bodies and use it to their advantage when powering out of the blocks. This is to generate power because the upper body acts in rhythm with the legs when sprinting. If sprinters had small upper torsos then they wouldn't generate power during the drive phase (start) coming out of the blocks. A lot of powerful spinters such as Asafa Powell rely on this also to power them through the last 40metres. Long distance runners dont need upper body strength as such because they rely on stamina, not muscular power. It would just be adding dead weight to them.

Answer 2

Sprinting works out your abs a lot.

Answer 3

sprinting is mostly about technique  and power  as for long distance   its all about endurance