Usain Bolt 100m world record: Science behind it is fascinating

When you think of athletics, one athlete stands out among others and has become synonymous with sprinting, even through retirement.

This is, of course, Usain Bolt.

Arguably the most recognisable athlete on the planet with his bright yellow and green attire, Bolt has brought success and recognition to Jamaica, representing them as a sprinting powerhouse as he holds the records for the 100m, 200m and the 4x100m relay.

But is his dominance just a feat of nature or is there an equation for such a successful sprinter?

Well obviously there is a technique to achieve the fastest results. Bolt’s own technique can be studied during his 100m race at the 2009 World Championships in Berlin.

Bolt was able to set a time of an incredible 9.58 seconds, beating his own record of 9.69 seconds set in the previous year’s Beijing Olympic Games.

The start is vital as it is where the most time can be gained. Right off the starting block, Bolt uses a ‘line of attack’ which is a straight line between his foot, ankle, hip and shoulders, allowing for his optimum force to be pushed against the ground and propel the athlete forwards.

The science behind Usain Bolt’s 100m world record