How do I get better at steeplechase?

Ieuan Thomas’ top tips for steeplechase beginners

1. Learn to look for the barrier. This sounds simple, but it’s your number one rule.
2. Learn to use both legs.
3. Accelerate.
4. Forward lean.
5. Perfect your leg position.
6. Work on your landing.
7. Develop flexibility.
8. Build in drills.

What makes a good steeplechase runner?

Like the 400 meter hurdles, the steeplechase requires a great deal of well-rounded athleticism and a unique blend of multiple talents. The strongest steeplechasers not only possess the perfect combination of speed and endurance, but also a bit more coordination and balance than the average distance runner.

What are the characteristics of steeplechase?

The steeplechase is a unique event in Track and Field in that it combines endurance, speed, and agility into one frenzied, athletic competition. Steeplechasers must be tough mentally and physically, finding the strength and determination to race over the hurdles despite intense fatigue.

What’s the best way to run a steeplechase?

In the last two or three strides have them veer off each side of the hurdle, the middle opens up and the steeplechaser can see the hurdle for the first time–very much the same as the situation in a race if he is running in a group. Another difficulty in working in the steeplechase is that the athlete cannot afford to hit a hurdle.

How is steeplechase similar to 400m hurdles?

Steeplechase hurdling form appears quite similar to the technique applied in the 400m-hurdle race, albeit with a few major differences. The steeplechase athlete will naturally be running slower and taking off closer to the barrier, using a less aggressive hurdle technique.

What happens if you Hurdle a barrier in steeplechase?

Here’s the advice I’d give to any young athlete prepared to give it a go: This sounds simple, but it’s your number one rule. Unless you learn to spot the barrier earlier, you will lose fluidity and rhythm. You will stutter and lose speed (or velocity) as you hurdle.

Who are the best steeplechasers in the world?

Since the 1968 Summer Olympics, Kenyan athletes have dominated the steeplechase event, including a clean sweep of the medals at the 1992 and 2004 Games. I remain awestruck by these athletes’ remarkable ability to clear one steeple after the next without breaking stride, merely grazing the water pit and hardly getting wet.