Quiz the Coach - How do I Improve my 40?

The Kidzworld Coach

So ya dig sports but need some help with your game? Don't understand some of the rules of football, basketball or hockey? Got a gripe about P.E. class, skateboarders, cheerleading, coaches, or anything? Why not Quiz the Coach?

Hey Coach,
I'm goin out for the starting spot for the running back position for the freshman football team. I'm pretty good, but there's a lot of competition. I know I have to improve my 40 time, so how do I do that? I really want to start!
BSanders11

BSanders11,
When it comes down to 40 yard dash times, every tenth of a second counts! In the NFL, the difference between a 4.8 second 40 time and a 4.4 second is huge! That time can decide between getting drafted or not - and that's not even half a second! I'm not trying to put any extra pressure on you, but you do have to maximize your potential when you run a 40.

The key to getting your best time is pure technique. You will be surprised how much time you can take off your 40 simply by having proper mechanics. The best is to hook up with the school's track coach so they can teach you the proper stance when you get ready to start. They will teach you how to lean forward as you sprint out of the blocks and transition to an upward running position. Make sure to stay on your toes and keep your arms parallel to your body as you sprint. Your arms are crucial to driving your speed and acceleration.

Once you get the technique down, there are ways you can skim even more time off of your 40. A short sprint is all about explosiveness and power so do exercises that will maximize your power areas. Do a lot of resistance-type running like running stairs or hills. This will build your leg muscles and make you more explosive. Other good exercises are jumping rope and quick sprints - maybe a series of 20 yard sprints.

On top of mechanics and strength training, make sure you are eating right also. It is going to be hard to impress those coaches with extra baggage, if you know what I'm talking about. Stay away from fried foods and stuff with a lot of sugar. Try to eat carbs only before you are going to work out. With the proper nutrition, training and dedication you will watch your 40 time decrease. It is going to take hard work and sacrifice, but it will all be worth it when you are running that football in for touchdowns!

Do you need tips or advice on sports, fitness or health? Send it to the Kidzworld Coach. Keep in mind peeps, the Kidzworld Coach isn't a doctor or a professional athlete or anything like that. He's just a dude who digs sports, plays 'em and knows a lot about 'em. You should always talk to your 'rents, a doctor or your school gym teacher before starting a new sport or a new exercise.