Would it be best to run with two speed parachutes or one to get faster?

Question

I play varsity football and run track im try in to gain speed and explosiveness before the season, but would it be best to run with two or just one to increase my speed.

Answer 1

You're not going to get faster or more explosive running with parachutes.  Chutes are more useful in training for speed endurance (200m-300m for most) or lactic acid tolerance (300m-600m).  So the answer is 0.

You get more top speed by perfecting form and running fast.  "Flying 40's" are a great way to do this.  Give yourself 30m to gradually accelerate to a 98% sprint that you hold for 40m, then decellerate gradually.  I say 98% because you do not want to tense up.  Stay relaxed, you will get faster.  2 sets of 3-5 with 1 minute between reps and 5 minutes between sets.

For explosiveness, plyometrics are great as are sled pulls.  If you do sled pulls, keep the weight down.  You'll be tempted to  stack on the weight but don't.  Keep it fairly light so your feet are not in contact with the ground any longer than they would be without the weight.  This will keep your muscles firing at the same rate as they would on race day.