How to Improve Your 40 Yard Dash Time

The hype from the Super Bowl often extends throughout the following week. For some, they're thrilled with the outcome, yet for others, they're bitter about a loss. For athletes and youth players, however, perhaps the biggest game of the year created a sense of urgency or a drive to crank up this week's training in hopes that, one day, you will hold that trophy in front of millions!

Currently on campus, the NFL Combine Program is assisting potential future NFL stars with dozens of drills, meal plans, and mental toughness outlooks. Everything from how to eat to strengthening their bodies to how to react in an interview - these trainees are in the know. One pertinent drill that takes place during NFL Combine training is the 40, or 40-yard dash. 

So, if the Super Bowl excitement has yet to wear off, and you're wondering how you can improve your 40 time - here's how!

1. Technique - Move in a straight line. Most players are used to moving laterally. Utilize correct knee drive, contact with the ground, and arm stroke.

2. Start - Staggered position. Drive all mass in a positive direction - Force = mass x acceleration, so the objective is to double acceleration so you can move faster/ apply force in a positive direction.

3. Transition - Shoulders continue moving towards the finish line and should not be pulling toward the starting line because it kills momentum.

4. Power - Football players have great power output, but applying it in a positive way is what they're learning. How to apply their power but not run outside their center of gravity but instead running under their center of gravity with foot placement.

5. Relax - Any tension permeates through their entire body, so they can't fully execute their movement. They have high velocity but have to do so in a relaxed fashion.

Information provided by coaches from IMG Academy's Pro and College Training Program