Speed refers to the ability to cover a distance or perform a movement in as short a time as possible. Reaction time is the length of time it takes to respond to a stimulus, such as the sound of a starting gun. Running speed depends on factors like range of movement in joints, muscle strength, stride length and frequency, correct technique, and force exerted by the leading leg. Speed can be improved through strength training to strengthen leg muscles, and a combination of aerobic and anaerobic exercises to increase muscular endurance and ability to cope with lactic acid buildup.

1. Standard Grade Physical
Education
Speed

2. What is SPEED?
• It is the ability to cover a distance or
perform a movement in as short a time
as possible.

3. Some examples:
• A sprinter would use their whole body to generate
speed
• A soft ball player would use their arms (part of
their body) to swing the bat as quickly as possible
* Different activities require different types of
speed.

4. Reaction Time
This is the length of time it takes to respond
to a stimulus. For example:Clip
• A sprinter responds to the sound of a gun.
• A tennis player responds to the action of their
opponent.
The quicker the reaction time the greater the
advantage.
• Reaction time can be improved through practising
the activity itself, eg. A series of sprint starts.

5. Running speed depends on a
number of factors...
• Range of movement in
ankles, hips and
shoulders
• Strength of muscles
• Stride length and
frequency
• Correct technique
• Force exerted by
leading leg
• Ability of muscles to
cope with a build-up
of lactic acid

6. How can speed be improved?
• Using strength training methods to
strengthen the leg muscles which will
enable them to contract faster.
• A combination of aerobic and anaerobic
exercises. This increases muscular
endurance and allows muscles to increase
their ability to cope with lactic acid buildup.

7. Tasks:
1. Describe two situations where speed would
be beneficial in an activity of your choice.
(E.g, Forward beating a defender in hockey)
2. Q50 P21 (Questions in SGPE)