During the start in sprinting, what does the front leg do as the rear leg swings forward?

• A. Bends further at the knee
• B. Completes its extension
• C. Draws the leg inward
• D. Rotates the hip outward

Answer: (B)

In a sprint start, the front leg acts as the solid platform that transfers the push from the rear leg into forward motion. As the rear leg swings forward, the front leg should complete its extension—reaching near full knee extension with the ankle aligned—so the leg becomes a stiff, stable base. This fully extended position helps transfer force efficiently, supports proper hip and torso alignment, and sets up the body for a powerful drive into the subsequent strides. If the front leg bent more, the force from the rear leg wouldn’t transfer as effectively, slowing acceleration. Drawing the leg inward or rotating the hip outward would misalign the body and reduce drive, whereas completing extension keeps the propulsion clean and forward-focused.